Coast Community News #474

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CCN encourages “community journalism”, including story leads, citizen reports, media releases, photos & letters to the Editor.

Valentine’s Day on the Coast –more than it seems

As February 14 rolls around, hearts, flowers, and chocolates flood our stores, and love songs dominate the airwaves.

But Valentine’s Day is more than a commercial spectacle, it has deep roots in history and, more importantly, reminds us of the many forms of love that shape our lives and our region.

EDITORIAL

grand gestures and material expressions of romance.

Yet, love in its purest form goes beyond candlelit dinners and roses.

romance; Pragma, the enduring love of lifelong partners; Philautia, self-love; and Mania, the obsessive kind.

take pride in the remarkable people who make this place special.

Each of these plays a role in shaping not just relationships but the very fabric of our community.

We reserve the right to use, or not use, any material sent to us for publication and to validate, amend, update, expand or reduce the information provided at our sole discretion and in accordance with our editorial guidelines.

Material that is considered offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published. Please send contributions to the above email address along with a high-res image (if applicable).

Managing Editor: David Abrahams

Print Editor & Senior Journalist: Terry Collins

Journalists: Sue Murray, Denice Barnes, Merilyn Vale

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Contributors: Cheralyn Darcey

The day itself traces back to Saint Valentine, a thirdcentury Roman priest who defied an emperor’s ban on marriages, believing in the sanctity of love and human connection.

Over time, this day has evolved, often reduced to

The ancient Greeks understood this well. They identified eight types of love, each holding significance at different stages of life.

There’s Eros, the passionate, romantic love; Philia, the deep bond of friendship; Storge, the unconditional love of family; and Agape, the selfless, universal love for humanity.

There’s also Ludus, the playful affection of new

Here on the Central Coast, love extends far beyond couples exchanging gifts. It’s the love of place, the deep connection we share with our spectacular coastline, our forests, and the rich history of our region.

It’s the love of community, the way we rally around each other in tough times, celebrate our local achievements and

There’s plenty on offer locally this weekend, from cabaret to music and most poignantly the Wyong Love Lanes Festival on Saturday leading what we may call “a love lead recovery of Wyong”. This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate not just romantic love, but the love that binds us all together – the love of our home, our people, and the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Because in the end, it’s love in all its forms that makes our region truly extraordinary.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Coastability scholarships for study or sport

Coastability congratulates its 2024 scholarship recipients and announces that scholarship applications are now open for 2025.

CoastAbility Limited offers academic and sporting scholarships to young people who are living with a physical disability and studying at a tertiary institution or competing in sport at a high level.

Each scholarship is for up to $5,000.

CoastAbility supports Central Coast young people with physical disabilities from birth to age 25 by providing financial assistance towards the costs of disability related needs not covered by NDIS funding.

This may include mobility, access and therapeutic equipment, assistive technology, daily living aids and activities to empower the

young people and promote wellbeing.

CoastAbility has been fortunate to receive substantial support from the Chapman Trusts since 1964 and they are mindful of continuing their commitment to use these funds to support Central Coast young people.

The scholarships are part of this ongoing commitment.

Scholarships may be used to cover expenses for items such as equipment, transport, accommodation, training and general education needs.

Applications close on March 1, 2025 and potential applicants will find more information and application forms on CoastAbility’s website at www. coastability.org.au Registration with CoastAbility is free and registration forms are also available on the website.

Cohan Szypica being presented with his Sporting Scholarship from Wheelchair Sportsperson Rick Engles

Donald Keith Loving husband of Helen.

father of Linden, Scott and Brett.

Scholarship recipients (from left) Riley Smith, Mikaela Magro, Adam Deas and Ella McKay

Training session turned into real-life rescue

Three Marine Rescue Central Coast vessels, including two rescue watercrafts, participated in the NSW SES’s 5th annual Who Let the Boats Out flood rescue training event on Brisbane Water last weekend.

This was the largest event run by the SES so far, with more than 900 participants and 240 vessels across the state, from all the emergency services plus Maritime, working together to respond to 2,200 individual emergency response events.

Central Coast Marine Rescue worked together with several vessels from the NSW SES Gosford Unit, along with the Erina Rural Fire Brigade, taking part in a range of emergency response scenarios.

The possible future of Central Coast Airport at Warnervale could be best described as a business park facilitated by an aircraft landing strip, Central Coast Council CEO David Farmer said at a councillor briefing this week.

Businesses could include aviation related manufacturing, pilot training and university and TAFE aviation students.

The upcoming Central Coast Airport Masterplan was the main topic at the first councillor briefing where the public could attend.

The briefing was held on Tuesday, February 11, at the Wyong council building and three members of the public including a representative of the Central Coast Aero Club and this journalist attended.

The masterplan will be on the agenda at the February 25 Council meeting.

If adopted, the plan’s first steps will include defining the airport’s boundaries, consolidating lots and simplifying multiple zonings.

After that, consideration could be given to whether Council finances future runway upgrades

These included fire drills, boat breakdown, emergency anchoring, transferring of casualties between vessels, vessel towing, boat-based casualty recovery, and person overboard.

All scenarios were aimed at replicating events that can frequently occur during significant or statewide flood events.

Marine Rescue even had to manage a real-life assist midway through the event, adding an extra level of realism to things, said MRCC spokesperson Steven Constantine.

“A member of the public encountered a distressed vessel and seeing Marine Rescue in operation further north on Brisbane Water came

to advise the rescue unit,” he said.

“The two rescue watercraft were dispatched to provide rapid response/assistance and confirm the vessel’s issues.

“The vessel then quickly attended and provide a tow to Gosford.

“Great to have the SES onboard to observe how we do things.

“It was a great opportunity for Marine Rescue to work closely with the local Gosford SES team, including having their members aboard the unit’s vessel.”

Constantine said that it was a great opportunity to share experiences, and the Brisbane Water based unit looked forward to working closely together on further exercises.

Councillors briefed on airport masterplan

or considers leasing or selling the airstrip.

The meeting heard that the power lines in Sparks Rd, on the opposite side of the road to the airport will be moved underground next week.

The work was expected to be completed this week but rain stalled the work.

Electrical work and the maintenance of trees to keep their height down is expected to increase the useful area of the runway for aircraft coming in to land.

The airport costs Council $158,000 per year but when asked if it had been running at a loss for its entire 50 years, the Council staffer said it was impossible to track down that sort of information.

Total cost to upgrade the airport’s runway is estimated at $5.7M.

The masterplan allows the airport runway to be widened from 10m to 18m and the taxiway to increase from 4.5m to 10.5m.

The upgrade would bring the strip up to Code 1B grade; enough to allow the relocation of emergency services from Arizona Rd, Charmhaven, but not

enough to require a Federal Government Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) certification.

Council said CASA certification was not a goal as the runway was not long enough.

The masterplan has been a long time coming, under discussion even before the amalgamation of Wyong and Gosford councils in 2016 to form Central Coast Council.

And then the first crop of Central Coast councillors stopped all work on the airport and re-allocated the money –$6M – to employment generating projects across the former Wyong Shire.

In 2021, the State Government repealed The Warnervale Airport (Restrictions) Act of 1996 which had limited the flights in and out of the airport.

By then, Central Coast Council was under administration.

The administrator resolved in April 2021 to approve the development of a masterplan for the airport.

The resolution included the suspension of the development of the Warnervale conservation agreement and any agreement with the NSW biodiversity Conservation Trust to permanently protect the surrounding Porters Creek

Wetland until the masterplan, the plan of management and a subdivision plan was registered that subdivides the Wetland and surrounding E2 land from employment land.

A draft of the masterplan went on public exhibition a year ago and appears to have been modified in response to community feedback.

More will become clear when it is tabled for the February Council meeting.

The briefing did not include a public copy of the masterplan.

At one of their first meetings, the newly elected councillors of 2024 discussed waiting for this masterplan before allowing the CEO to work on a lease for a helicopter business wanting to set up at the airport.

The CEO was given permission to advance the lease and a rescission motion at the following meeting to wait until the masterplan was tabled was lost but another rescission motion has since been submitted and will be dealt with at a future meeting.

A spokesperson for Your Central Coast Airport said after the meeting that the existing runway width was sufficient for majority

of operations, it’s the width of the asphalt lid that is the issue.

It is currently only 10-12m wide, and needs to be at a minimum of double that, according to the group.

“Once the asphalt lid is widened it will increase utilisation of the airport due to operational safety constraints being removed,” the spokesperson said.

“Case in point, at the two Paul Bennet Airshows some of the aircraft such as the Kittyhawks, Spitfires and other warbird aircraft had to be flown down from either Cessnock or Maitland airports for their displays and could not land to be put on static display for the event patrons.

“The same applies to the more sophisticated GA aircraft such as Pilatus, TBMs, King Airs and other GA business aircraft which will be able to utilise the new Central Coast Airport Business Hub once the runway lid widening works have been completed.

“Exciting times ahead for the Council and the region,” he said.

Hundreds expected at meeting to help stem increase in crime

From page 1

She said in recent months more than 320 well organised break and enters had been committed by masked and armed offenders across suburbs such as Terrigal, Avoca, North Avoca, Wamberal, Copacabana, Bateau Bay, Point Frederick, Gosford, Berkeley Vale and Killarney Vale.

She said the community was calling for a 24-hour presence

at Terrigal Police station which presently closes at 8pm, a dedicated taskforce of detectives as well as changed bail conditions for young people, longer detention sentences and sustained youth support both inside and outside detention centres.

“Terrigal is the night life capital of the Central Coast and there is no police presence,” she said.

“The community already knows who many of the offenders are, and has real information it is willing to share with the police.

“As for changing bail conditions, if Queensland can change it, I don’t see why we can’t.”

She said the increase in violent crime and armed robberies across Central Coast suburbs was impacting

residents in ways that could not be underestimated.

“Those who have experienced this crime are fearful and suffer ongoing anxiety,” she said.

“There are significant ripple effects through the broader community, both residential and business.

“The status quo cannot go on.”

Coleman said community leaders who had agreed to

attend included Police Minister Yasmin Catley, Federal Shadow Minister for Community Safety Jason Wood, Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, Brisbane Water Local Area Command Superintendent

Darryl Jobson, Regional Youth Support Services CEO Kim McLoury, a number of Central Coast councilliors including Sharon Walsh who is also chair of the Central Coast Domestic

Violence Committee, Police Assistant Commissioner of Youth Services Brett Greentree, and Liberal candidate for Robertson Lucy Wicks. A number of local residents will also address the meeting including Terrigal resident and former police officer David Brooke, Wamberal resident Tim Eaton and Bateau Bay resident and parent Adele Graham. Denice Barnes

Merilyn Vale

Central Coast Airport at Warnervale

Marine Rescue, SES and rural fire service teamed up for a training event on Brisbane Water

Council intervenes with reprieve for bowling club

Central Coast Council has offered a six-month seasonal booking to Gosford Community Bowling Club to give the club the opportunity to keep on bowling.

The offer gives the bowlers some breathing space to shore up its future.

It may result in a direct lease with Council after six months.

Parent club, Central Coast Leagues Club (CCLC) wanted the bowling club to vacate later this month so it could hand over vacant premises to Council early in March.

CCLC had decided it no longer wanted to renew the current lease for the site in Dane Dr, Gosford.

It has also sold off the bowlers’ carpark, leaving them no car access.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna said that over the next six months the bowling club would have the opportunity to develop a business plan and funding models which they could

present to Council for consideration.

If a satisfactory model is developed Council will consider entering into a direct lease with the bowling club.

“We are really pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to Gosford Community Bowling Club – as we know how important the club is to its members,” McKinna said.

“We recognise that the club felt it didn’t have any options, but after councillors visited the site, and Council spoke to club members, Council decided to help.

“The club has many challenges to face, including access, equipment, capital and a viable operating model – and Council’s offer will give them time to explore this.”

Until last week, the club was known as Gosford City Bowling Club and it had been one of many sub clubs under CCLC.

But CCLC told members last week it was no longer interested in subsidising the bowling club.

Since then, members have incorporated and renamed themselves Gosford Community Bowling Club.

A bowling club spokesperson said it was the start of a whole new chapter.

“We are all very happy that Central Coast Council has offered us a chance to continue bowling at our site,” the spokesperson said.

“A big thanks to the Mayor Lawrie McKinna, staff David Palmer, Chris Barrett, and councillors Belinda Neal, Jane Smith and Margot Castles for going that extra yard to help us out.”

The bowlers said they were grateful for the support that CCLC had given them over the years, but now it was time to stand on their own feet.

“Will it be easy? Not at all! Will it make us stronger? Hopefully,” the spokesperson said.

“Thank you to all the clubs and bowlers on the Coast that have sent us messages of support.

“It means a lot to us. As we move forward we are hoping that when the keys are handed over to us that the club will look

and feel the same way it does now.

“Will we have the equipment we will need to operate? Hopefully CCLC will be kind to us.”

Until recently the bowling club had been expecting that CCLC would sign a five year lease on their behalf with Council.

Long term, the Council has plans for the bowling club land to be reclassified and sold to developers.

It earmarked a hotel as an example of a better use for the site in its waterfront activation plans which the State Government has handed on to the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation. The Gosford Erina Business Chamber has been critical of the lack of action on those plans for the future of the waterfront and has called for a local development corporation focused solely on the Coast.

Merilyn Vale

Childcare crisis – parents still waiting for help

Almost four months after the sudden closure of a childcare centre in Woy Woy, many parents are still looking for a replacement service.

And answers.

With the Central Coast being a childcare desert, the closure of Coast Community Connections childcare centre in McMasters Rd, Woy Woy from October 18 last year generated nothing but worry and stress for the families involved.

From everyone else, there was a cloud of words in the immediate aftermath – and nothing since.

The Education Department,

the childcare centre, the politicians; all offered reassuring words about the future but nothing has come to fruition.

Another childcare centre across the road is full and other childcare centres on the peninsula have waitlists that are years long.

One childcare centre has 500 children on their waitlist and those who put their names down in 2022 are only now being offered placement.

But despite the Department of Education saying in October last year it was working to understand what solutions may be available to these families, there has

been no update.

“We are exploring broader options to support existing providers – including the

current provider – to identify any opportunities to expand existing services and build local capacity,” the Department

spokesperson said at the time.

“This includes looking at funding options and access to a specialist local team to provide advice to these providers in a timely and coordinated way.”

In November Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch asked Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car for some answers in the wake of the abrupt closure.

Coast Community News has asked him if he received any answers.

Also in November last year newly elected councillors were approached for support.

Nothing concrete has come from that as yet.

Meanwhile, suggestions from the affected families for solutions such as the possibility of relocating before-and-after school care services to Woy Woy South Public School have gone nowhere.

Families also suggested the Department proactively assess alternative locations, such as Umina Scout Hall or other school premises, for the establishment of a new longday-care centre to meet the needs of affected families.

Coast Community News has asked everyone involved for updates on the situation.

Life membership for two Pearl Beach residents

Paul Wickham and Greti Rieger have been bestowed with Life Membership awards in recognition of their outstanding contribution to Pearl Beach Progress Association over many years.

They received their awards together at the general meeting on February 1, as members say they are a great team and they never think of one without the other.

Their “exceptional” contribution has included technical management of the various events, concerts and

activities undertaken by the association.

Wickham is a former roadie with excellent skills in sound and lighting and Rieger is always up a ladder adjusting the sound and lighting.

He was born and raised in Newcastle and as a teenager started work in The Woolstore while playing bass guitar in a garage band.

It wasn’t long before Wickham left for the bright lights of Sydney and worked as a roadie for a few moderately successful Aussie rock bands in the 70s, which is where he learned how

to dazzle the crowd with sound and lights and the occasional pyrotechnics, almost setting alight the stage on Countdown once.

After a few years the slog of the road and the glamour of showbiz wore off and Wickham decided to further his education.

And then he met Rieger who first hijacked him on a tour around the globe.

Upon returning to Australia in 1988, Wickham got serious and went into the Public Service, first to the Navy, then to SBS and finally the Department of Health where he

remained until his retirement in 2010.

During this time he was always pursuing music, learning the saxophone and doing arts and science studies. Rieger studied as a radiographer.

She always had an adventurous spirit and loved travel so it was inevitable that when she met Wickham they would travel the world together.

They continued their travels in Australia and Canada in recent years.

Paul Wickham and Greti Rieger receiving Life Membership awards from Pearl Beach Progress Association President Russell Grove

Some of the bowlers in pennant trials in January

Merilyn Vale

The closure of a long day care centre at Woy Woy blindsided families

Help put smile on the dials of disabled surfers

Central Coast Disabled Surfers Association (DSACC) will hold a “Smiles on Dials” event at Umina Beach on Saturday, March 1, following a successful February event.

To ensure a successful, safe and enjoyable event, large numbers of volunteers are needed.

Volunteers do not need to know how to surf although water skills are highly valued.

Interested volunteers are asked to register online via Humanitix or via bit.ly/ DSACC1stMarch prior to the event so organisers know how many surfers they can accept.

Volunteers will also be accepted on the day.

A water refill station and a rash shirt will be provided for the day, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own wetsuits.

A sausage sizzle will complete the festivities.

Volunteering at a Smiles on Dials event consists of helping participants to and from the beach, assisting them in and out of the water and helping set up and clean up.

DSACC is a volunteer-run organisation that enables people of all ages and abilities to take part in one of Australia’s most popular pastimes, beach surfing, whilst under complete supervision of trained team leaders and beach marshalls.

DSA volunteers serve to provide a safe, and happy surfing experience to a wide range of people with various disabilities who would otherwise be unable to access the beach.

In order to ensure safety, DSA has a very high volunteer-toparticipant ratio, with a minimum of six-to-one up to as

high as 30-to-one for more challenging participants.

Participants only surf in broken waves, in waist depth water with volunteers helping participants enjoy the experience that able-bodied people often take for granted.

The DSA was established in 1986 and currently has 19 branches across Australia and New Zealand.

The association sets world’s best practice for the sport of Disabled Surfing.

DSA training programs are award winning for Outstanding Achievement in implementing Safe Sport Practices and Minister’s awards for Most Significant Contribution to Water Safety by an organisation.

See event details at www. facebook.com/CentralCoast DisabledSurfersAssoc or for more information on DSA, visit disabledsurfers.org.au

Design award for visitor centre at scenic dam

Mangrove Creek Dam

Visitor Centre has been awarded the 2024 Newcastle Excellence in Building Award in the Public Buildings category (under $5M).

The accolade recognises outstanding craftsmanship and architectural design.

A spokesperson for Slater Architects said a key focus of the design was to establish a deep connection between the natural and built environment, with the structure embracing the views and orientation towards Mangrove Creek Dam.

The centre was also shortlisted for the 2025 Newcastle Architecture Awards in the Public Architecture category, in collaboration with North Construction & Building, further highlighting its

innovative and sustainable design.

Central Coast Council Director Water and Sewer, Danielle Hargreaves, emphasised the project’s alignment with community aspirations.

“We’re thrilled that the visitor centre has been recognised as a regional achievement,” she said.

“Community consultation shaped the design, ensuring it reflects their vision for the site at Kulnura.

“Built after the 2019 Three Mile Fire devastated the original picnic area, the centre invites visitors to explore our natural environment, local Indigenous heritage, and the critical role of Mangrove Creek

Dam in the Central Coast’s water supply.

“With over 6,000 visitors since its opening in September 2023, the centre is already a valued community asset.”

Mayor Lawrie McKinna celebrated the recognition, highlighting the Centre’s impact.

“The Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre represents a collective achievement, showcasing Council’s dedication to sustainable development and meaningful community engagement as we shape the region’s future,” he said.

“With its rich educational experiences and breathtaking views of the Central Coast’s largest dam, the centre significantly enhances the hinterland’s appeal as a vibrant tourism destination.”

Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre materials were selected to reflect the natural environment and provide longevity and include natural finishes.

All materials satisfy BAL 40 to BAL Fire Zone construction standards.

Adding to the aesthetic of the landscape, a distinctive butterfly roof angled in two directions embraces the views and emphasises the dam’s orientation.

The $3.2M project was rebuilt after Central Coast Council received $2.567M from the Commonwealth and NSW Government’s Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm (excluding Christmas Day), the visitor centre offers picnic shelters, a children’s play area, and accessible amenities.

The site will close during periods of extreme or catastrophic fire danger to ensure public safety.

Plan your visit, search Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre at lovecentralcoast.com

Gosford sandstone features in War Memorial extension

Wondabyne sandstone from Gosford Quarry will feature in the Australian Government’s $550M upgrade to the Australian War Memorial.

The quarry re-opened the same face that had been used to build the memorial in the 1930s and 40s so that builders could get a perfect match of new stone to the existing stone.

The Australian War Memorial’s new main entrance required 380m3 or around 800 tonne of Wondabyne sandstone from the quarry.

Stone was also processed at the quarry using a variety of tools including a robotic chisel.

The existing Wondabyne sandstone stairs and bastions at the memorial had to be carefully removed, stored and reinstated to allow builders to connect the new main entrance to the existing heritage-listed main building.

Wondabyne sandstone is also being used in the Anzac Hall which is still under construction.

The Wondabyne Quarry is typically only accessible three times a year when the adjacent rail line is closed for maintenance; the extracted stone needs to be hauled

across water via a barge, and then on to Canberra.

“It is tremendous that sandstone from Gosford Quarry on the Central Coast has been used to help build the new main entrance to the Australian War Memorial,” Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said.

“Our Central Coast community will be proud to know that a part of our region will forever help commemorate the sacrifice and service of Australian Defence Force personnel and their families at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

“I recently had the opportunity to be a part of the official public

opening of the main entrance to the memorial, which saw the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, and other members of the Australian Parliament attend.

“I wish to thank Gosford Quarry for their marvellous work in providing premium sandstone for this project, and I look forward to seeing the rest of the development come to life.

“Our community can also see the Australian War Memorial’s Art in Conflict exhibition which is on display at the Gosford Regional Library from February 15.”

The new main entrance at the Australian War Memorial

The visitor centre at Mangrove Creek Dam

Terrigal trips turn up Twitcher’s Trophy

For the second year in a row, Andy Robinson has taken out the Twitcher’s Trophy at the Central Coast Group Birding NSW awards.

The Twitcher’s Trophy goes to the birder who records the most species over the calendar year in the Central Coast Local /government Area.

The award was initiated more than 10 years ago to encourage more people to go birdwatching.

Robinson recorded a massive 293 species in 2024 breaking his own record of 284 sent in 2023, the club said.

Robinson worked hard to achieve this total but the point of difference this year was the boat trips from Terrigal.

These trips involved Robinson going to the continental shelf about 50km off Terrigal.

NEWS IN BRIEF Expanded school bus service for Crangan Bay

For the first time students from Crangan Bay will have access to school bus services.

From February 24 existing bus services to five local schools will be adjusted and expanded to include the newly developed and growing Crangan Bay Estate.

The Alan Morris Trophy was won by Graham Nelson.

The trophy is awarded to the person who enters the

Despite battling wind, waves and seasickness, Robinson and a bunch of hardy souls managed to see a number of very rare seabirds with 54 species of seabird observed off Terrigal.

most surveys into Birdlife Australia’s data base.

The award is named in honour of Alan Morris who is one the founding members of the Central Coast Group and is patron of Birding NSW.

Morris has entered more than

20,000 surveys.

The award was created to encourage birders to record their sightings to enhance the database.

This database is a very important conservation tool.

In 2024, Graham Nelson

recorded 483 surveys out of a total for the Central Coast of nearly 3,000.

This was a great effort, the club said.

Michael Scobie, Leader of Central Coast Bird Group, presented the awards.

New lift on its way for Copacabana surf club

Central Coast Council has restored the use of the lift at the Copacabana Surf Life Saving Club building enabling easy access to the upstairs social spaces.

The internal lift had been out of action since earlier this year and Council responded to community calls to undertake some necessary repairs.

While this ageing lift is now back in use, it is acknowledged that the lift is essentially at the end of its life, and Council will be installing a brand-new lift in the next financial year.

The cost of the new lift is within the proposed Capital Works budget and will cost about $235,000, subject to Council approval.

Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the Copacabana SLSC was a vital part of the community and would be celebrating its 62nd anniversary this year.

“When it started in 1963, it had 16 foundation members,” he said.

“In the 2023/2024 season, the club had 466 members comprising 113 active members, 196 junior members and 157 associate/community members and it continues to grow.

“Council is really pleased to be able to support the club, and I look forward to the new lift being installed in due course.”

Boat licence theory course returns

A training seminar to help boaters acquire the skills and knowledge they need to stay safer on local waterways is scheduled for Saturday, February 15.

The certified Marine Rescue Boat Licence Theory Course is being held at the temporary Marine Rescue Operations Centre at the Woy Woy Community Centre.

The theory course will be conducted by trainer and assessor Ian Leafe, and coordinators Bob Gilbody, Paul Broad, Jane and Raymond Lewis.

Only 10 applicants will be accepted for the five-hour course, which starts at 8.30am.

To gain a full boat licence, participants will also need to

complete the Practical Handbook.

They are required to take a minimum of three trips with an experienced skipper, who has

held a licence for a minimum of three consecutive years.

Marine Rescue Central Coast is a Registered Training Organisation with members

professionally trained to national standards for their roles, both on and off the water, but does not offer the practical component.

“Courses are designed to teach you the ins and outs of safe boat handling and help build your confidence in local navigation, boating safety and the marine environment,” Ian Leafe said.

In addition, a PWC (jet ski) licence course is available on the same day.

Should a person wish to undertake both a general boat licence (young person or adult) and a PWC, they will need to enrol in two courses.

Everything you need to know about the course is available here at www.

marinerescuensw.com.au/ courses-licenses/generalboat-licence-and-pwc-licence and www.nsw.gov.au/drivingboating-and-transport/ boating-and-marine Book online via the Marine Rescue website or phone the base on 4337 9600.

The course costs $165 adults, $145 young person (12-15-year-old with parent of guardian), PWC licence $50 with $10 deposit payable on application for all courses.

The Marine Rescue Central Coast temporary Operations Centre is located at the Peninsula Community Centre, corner Ocean Beach and McMasters Rds at Woy Woy.

Following community feedback, students who live in the Crangan Bay Estate who attend St Brendan’s Primary School, St Brigid’s Catholic College, Lake Munmorah High School, Gwandalan Public School, or Lake Munmorah Public School will benefit from these bus services, providing more convenient access closer to home.

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said that while travel times on the existing school bus services would increase slightly by three minutes, the route adjustments would ensure better overall service reliability for all students from kindergarten to Year 12. Transport for NSW and the operator, Busways, are working closely with schools and parents to ensure they are aware of the updated bus services that take them to and from school.

These are:

Morning services - Route 2195, St Brendan’s Primary School & St Brigid’s Catholic College; Route 2209, Lake Munmorah High School; Route 2205, Gwandalan Public School and Lake Munmorah Public School.

Afternoon services - Route 2793, Lake Munmorah High School; Route 2654, Gwandalan Public School; Route 99, St Brendan’s Primary School and St Brigid’s Catholic College; Route 98, Lake Munmorah Public School.

Catley said tweaks to routes and timetables meant parents and carers should check the Trip Planner website.

Busways Head of Service Delivery NSW Central Coast, Steven Hawkins, said these service changes would give students in Crangan Bay better travel options, making their journeys easier.

“We’ve started informing local families and are pleased to work with (Swansea) MP Yasmin Catley to bring these changes to life. We hope it benefits all students in the area.”

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

From left: Mayor Lawrie McKinna, Elaine Norling, Briohny Kennedy, Cr Sharon Walsh and Cr Jared Wright at the repaired lift

Jane Lewis shares navigational knowledge on a Brisbane Water chart

Andy Robinson (left) receives his award from Michael Scobie; Graham Nelson (left) with Michael Scobie

Musical star Marney McQueen is Wyong Woman of the Year

Wyong Woman of the Year

2025 Marney McQueen has taken time out from pulling beers at the pub she and husband Frank own to treading the boards as Celine Dion in the musical Titanique, currently playing at The Grand Electric in Sydney.

The show is a parody of the film, Titanic, and is narrated by Celine Dion (McQueen) who claims she was also on the ship the night it sank, telling the audience her version of the story.

The show has been described as laugh-out-loud funny with the Australian production being the first to open outside of New York where it is still running offBroadway.

It’s the perfect show for McQueen whose background includes stand-up comedy and musical theatre.

The show opened in September last year and ticket sales go through to March this year.

“My agent called and said this show would be perfect for me,” she said.

“She sent me the script and I just loved it.

“It’s like a dream come true

stand-up comedy rolled into one.

“There’s a lot of audience interaction where Celine speaks to the audience directly.”

NIDA trained, McQueen’s background includes playing Velma Von Tussle in Hairspray, Marion in Priscilla Queen of the Desert – the Musical, and Nina in Dream Lover – the Bobby Darin Musical.

Her television credits include Chantelle Pennington in Neighbours, Charlie in Last Man Standing, Linda in The Pet

She studied with Barry Humphries in New York and after seeing his show eight times, she went on to create her own comedy character

Rosa Waxoffski, Celebrity Bikini Waxer, which she toured around the world at comedy festivals.

Born in Melbourne, she and husband Frank bought the Royal Hotel in Wyong just over seven years ago.

“My husband wanted to buy a pub and the Royal Hotel was for sale,” she said.

“We just jumped in the deep

“I had never heard of Wyong before we bought the pub.”

Seven years on and it’s a different story for the couple who have raised more than $250,000 for local charities including for the local Wires Group which concentrates on treating wombats suffering with mange in the Jilliby and Dooralong areas.

It’s little wonder Member for Wyong David Harris has named her as Wyong Woman of the Year 2025 for her contribution to the Wyong and Central Coast

She has participated in the Friends of Wyong River Rubbish Clean Up and raised money for the group to continue their great work.

McQueen has volunteered to host the annual Wyong Christmas Carols, hosted the Wyong Business Awards and hosted events at The Art House.

She has created an annual event as part of the Love Lanes Festival called the Royal Wedding, where she volunteers to marry local couples who may not have been able to

As a funeral celebrant she has been invited by many families to officiate the farewell gatherings of cherished local people, further connecting with the local area and its residents. With two sons aged eight and 10, she has thrown herself into the school community and as a member of Jilliby Public School’s P&C, she has volunteered for working bees and fundraising raffles.

She is also a great supporter of Wyong Lakes Football Club, volunteering in the canteen and the barbecue fundraising and was team manager last year for the under-9s.

“We got so lucky, getting to know all these people in this town,” she said.

“There are so many people working hard in this community.

“I am very honoured to be named Wyong Woman of the Year.

“It’s so lovely to know David Harris has deemed what I have done for the community to be important.

“There are a lot of incredible women doing a lot for the Wyong community.

“It’s a real honour.”

Georgina Hopson, Marney McQueen and Drew Weston in Titanique

Photo: David Boud

A record number of Central Coast residents and out-ofarea visitors celebrated World Wetlands Day at the 20th Breakfast with the Birds on Sunday, February 2.

This event is held annually at the Central Coast Wetlands, Pioneer Dairy, on the southern edge of the Wyong River and is jointly hosted by the Community Environment Network (CEN), Waterwatch and Central Coast Group of Birding NSW. It is supported by the Central Coast Wetland Pioneer Dairy Trust and Central Coast Council.

Waterwatch Co-ordinator

Rachael Kneeves said Breakfast with the Birds 2025 was a huge success, attended by a record number of locals and out-of-area visitors who heard about the event and decided to give it a try.

“Within hours our eager bird watchers had recorded seeing well over 40 different species, including some migratory birds and threatened species, which is a great way to celebrate this year’s World Wetlands Day theme – protecting our

Breakfast with birds a resounding success

wetlands for our common future,” she said.

“Participants were eager to take part in our hands-on cultural talk, guided bird watching walks, tree planting and dip netting for waterbugs.

“The weather was fantastic and we want to pay special thanks to our volunteers and the Lions Club for supplying a

A new hand railing has been installed at Terrigal Haven to help people who require additional assistance to access the area.

Central Coast Councillor Jared Wright has been working with Council staff and the community over the past few months to provide greater access to local beaches for those with added mobility requirements.

He said locals had expressed their concerns to him about Terrigal Haven and that it was difficult to access for those using a walking aid or wheelchair.

“Part of why we live where we do is because we have access

delicious egg and bacon breakfast.

“The event attracts visitors of all ages, and it is wonderful to see so many people out in nature, enjoying the wetlands that play a major role in providing habitat for many species of flora and fauna including migratory birds and bats.

“The wetlands are also the lungs of the Wyong River and the Tuggerah lakes, so it is vital that they stay healthy and well cared for.

“Breakfast with the Birds is also an opportunity for the community to learn about the importance of our wetlands and they showed a high interest in our ongoing projects and

campaigns including Waterwatch, Central Coast Platypus Watch and Friends of Porters Creek Wetland.

“We are delighted that a small event that started 20 years ago as a humble information display about the importance of wetlands continues to grow and thrive.

New hand railing at Terrigal Haven

to such beautiful beaches and waterways and I believe it is important that everyone can enjoy them,” he said.

“I want to thank local residents, particularly Elaine Nording, for their advocacy on this issue.

“This project is a great example of how members of the community can work with Councillors to achieve outcomes that really make a difference in people’s lives.”

Wright said he had already received positive feedback from local residents about the new hand railing which connected the carpark at Terrigal Haven to the boat ramp

near the Terrigal boardwalk and to the beach.

“Since announcing this upgrade, I have had people within the community reach out who were excited about the increased accessibility, as previously they didn’t feel confident entering the water down at Terrigal Haven.

“This is a positive outcome and I look forward to seeing many local residents using it in the future.

“I will continue working with Council staff and the broader community to see what more we can do to provide greater accessibility at other local beaches and along our waterways,” Wright said.

“Wetlands are extremely efficient at sequestering and storing carbon in addition to their crucial role as habitat and for keeping our rivers and lakes clean.”

For more information about World Wetlands Day, Breakfast with the Birds or the Central Coast Wetlands, contact waterwatch@cen.org.au

Nominate a community-minded senior

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging people in her electorate to recognise an outstanding older person in the community by nominating them for the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards.

Tesch said the 2025 Seniors Festival and the Local Achievement Awards celebrated the tremendous contribution seniors offered to the community.

“If you know a senior who strives to make our community a better place through volunteering, community service or innovation, or simply supporting family and friends, now is the time to nominate them for the Seniors Local Achievement Awards,” she said.

“We are fortunate to have so many seniors in our local community who are generous with their time, energy and commitment.

“So many of our community organisations and families

function and operate on the basis of the hard work of our local seniors.

“By highlighting seniors’ continued efforts in helping the Central Coast and beyond to thrive, we are continuing to challenge ageism and empower seniors to overcome social stigma.”

Make a nomination online at liesltesch.com.au/2025gosford-seniors-awards/ or in person at the electorate office at 71 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy.

Nominations close at 5pm on Sunday, March 2.

Winners of the Local Achievement Awards will be announced during the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival, which runs from March 3-16. The awards program is part of an exciting schedule of events across the state.

For more information about NSW Seniors Festival and the Local Achievement Awards, visit seniorsfestival.nsw.gov. au

Gosford Senior of the Year 2024 Barry Hyde with Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and the Meals on Wheels team

Eager bird watchers at Central Coast Wetlands

Dip netting at the wetlands

Cr Wright at the new railing at Terrigal Haven

Not all illegal campers are homeless

I would like to thank you for your piece on the illegal squatters and campers in our public carparks, especially the ones at The Entrance bridge and The Entrance. (CCN 473

Squatters and illegal campers continue to cause concern).

These people are not homeless as they have motor homes and car and caravans worth a lot of money.

There are no facilities at those locations.

One lot has been there at least five months and have made themselves very much at home.

I am a ratepayer and would like to live there rates free.

Nobody seems interested in moving them on except Councillor Eaton who is not getting much support from fellow councillors who were voted in to act for us.

I would like to know who they are for when we have to vote for them next time.

Read more forum on our website by

Email, Feb 8

Margaret Preston

Grateful for thoughtfulness

I continually read about delinquent or thoughtless young people but I just wanted to congratulate a caring young lady on the Central Coast.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t quick enough to get her name but I wish I had.

I had a fall in the front yard of my home on Tramway Rd, North Avoca and as quick as I fell a lovely young lady pulled her car to the side of the road and hurried across the road to assist me.

I was a bit dazed at the time but I really appreciated her thoughtfulness. (She is) a young Australian to be proud of (and her actions are) much appreciated.

Email, Feb 10

Ross Hanlon, North Avoca

Water sell-off an inadequate solution

The editorial, (CCN 473 Independent Central Coast water authority the only way forward) demonstrates little faith in Central Coast Council.

One incident with water quality does not necessarily indicate a systemic incompetence.

However, our elected councillors do have a responsibility to oversee Council operations on behalf of the ratepayers.

Selling off this responsibility seems an inadequate solution and saying that something is inevitable does not make it so.

Ratepayers pay water rates and vote for councillors.

Ratepayers expect this to be an appropriate management combination.

If councillors are unable to properly supervise the administration of Council water services, it is they that should be replaced with competent managers; not to abdicate this responsibility with asset selloffs.

Email, Feb 6

Peter Taunton, Budgewoi

EDITOR’S RESPONSE: To be clear, last week’s editorial did not advocate for privatisation, rather a separate publicly owned water authority like Sydney Water and Hunter Water.

Time for good governance

Now we once again have councillor representatives it is time for good governance and transparency and accountability within Central Coast Council.

This is especially regarding current heritage practices, including considering the heritage recommendations of our last completed but not addressed Heritage Study, and

Child injured in Lisarow hit and run

Police are appealing for information after a child was hit by a car at Lisarow last Friday.

At about 2.55pm on Friday, February 7 emergency services were called to Railway Cres, Lisarow, following reports a pedestrian had been hit by a car.

the retention of Kibble Park Library as long ago recommended therein.

It is important that Council facilitates transparent public access to the reconsideration of the about-to-be listed Kibble Park Library.

There is no reason to limit community participation at the meeting (as proposed by councillors) and limit community input to only six people selected by Council. (CCN 473 “Library meeting open to only six members of public”)

The current Council also needs to urgently reform its new Heritage Advisory Committee as a channel for community input to Council.

Email, Feb 9 Kay Williams, Pearl Beach

Cost of living taking its toll

The Entrance and other locations on the Central Coast experiencing an influx of either “free campers” or homeless persons camped at recreational parks or carparks is a major concern.

(CCN 473 “Squatters and illegal campers continue to cause concern)

However, we are not alone as this is becoming a serious problem throughout the state.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to take its toll on individuals, families and small businesses I fear for even more of this in the future.

The current Federal Government’s ineptitude and madness is wasting billions of taxpayers’ dollars on net zero madness and turning this country into a socialist welfare state of despondent homeless people.

After the lockdown of COVID we should have been entering a period of economic prosperity. Not so – with ever-increasing energy costs, housing shortages, the lack of real productivity employment, created by the Albanese Government – it is very evident at Picnic Point.

Let’s hope 2025 sees us turn the corner.

ON THE BEAT BRIEFS ON THE BEAT

Police established a crime scene and officers from the Crash Investigation Unit have commenced an investigation into the incident.

As the investigation continues, police would like to speak to the driver of a silver Volkswagen Golf believed to be in the area at the time of the incident.

Eight teens caught in pool onslaught

Eight young people will be dealt with under the Young Offender’s Act following an investigation by Brisbane Water Police District.

Following extensive inquiries by police, eight local teenagers – all aged between 13 and 17 – were identified as allegedly being involved.

Officers attached to Brisbane Waters Police District and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command attended and found a 12-year-old girl had been hit by a car while crossing the road before the vehicle left the scene.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the child for serious leg and arm injuries and when she

was in a stable condition she was flown by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter to John Hunter Hospital for further treatment.

Officers are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash – or has any available dashcam or mobile phone footage – to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw.crimestoppers. com.au

Thirteen charges after police chase

A man is facing charges over alleged firearm, drug and driving offences following a police pursuit which started in Woy Woy on Wednesday, February 5.

Police attempted to stop an unregistered Ford Falcon at about 5.40pm but the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed.

Police gave chase but the pursuit was terminated a short time later because of the man’s manner of driving.

Soon after police were called to Lentara Rd, Umina Beach,

following reports the same vehicle had crashed into a parked car and telegraph pole.

Police have been told that a member of the public approached the driver of the vehicle, before they were threatened with a firearm, and the driver fled on foot.

Following an extensive search of the area, police located the man on Haynes St, Umina Beach, where he allegedly pointed the firearm at police.

Officers withdrew their service firearms and a taser, and following a negotiation, the man surrendered to police.

A subsequent search of the man allegedly revealed a firearm, knife, and clear resealable bag containing a substance believed to be methamphetamine.

The 28-year-old man was arrested and taken to Gosford Hospital for mandatory testing, before being taken to Gosford Police Station.

He was charged with 13 offences: Police pursuit – not stop – drive at speed; Drive, licence suspended under s66 Fines Act; Drive vehicle under influence of drugs; Use unregistered registrable Class

A motor vehicle on road; Use uninsured motor vehicle on road; Not give particulars to owner of damaged property; Armed with intent commit indictable offence; Possess unauthorised firearm; Handle/ use firearm under the influence of alcohol/drug; Enter building/ land with firearm or imitation firearm; Use etc offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention etc; Carry cutting weapon upon apprehension; Possess prohibited drug. He was refused bail to appear before Gosford Local Court.

Earlier this week, police began investigating two trespass incidents that occurred at Terrigal on Monday and Tuesday, February 3 and 4 February.

Police were told a group of teens allegedly jumped the fence of an apartment complex and used a private pool before throwing furniture into the pool and leaving.

All eight teens will be dealt with under the Young Offender’s Act for the offence of trespass.

As inquiries into anti-social behaviour continue, police remind the community of the importance of reporting incidents directly to police, rather than only on social media.

Umina Beach arrest

A 37-year-old man will face charges in Gosford Local Court on March 18 following his arrest in Umina Beach.

Police stopped a vehicle on Ocean Beach Rd, Umina Beach at about 11.45pm on Friday, February 7.

A firearms prohibition order compliance check was subsequently conducted, with

a search of the man’s vehicle allegedly revealing drug paraphernalia and a number of steroids and prescription medications.

The man was arrested and taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged on two counts of possess prescribed restricted substance, and possess anabolic or androgenic steroidal agent.

Email, Feb 6 Barry Lloyd, Bateau Bay

Symphony Central Coast will open its 2025 season with a nod to classical music at a concert of Classical Elegance at Brentwood Village auditorium on Sunday, February 16.

For nearly 300 years, European music from the 18th and 19th centuries has been the lifeblood of orchestral repertoire.

Prized for their charming melodies, balanced forms and refined orchestration, works by Handel, Mozart, Beethoven, Gluck and others are sure crowd-pleasers and epitomise the enduring appeal of classical music.

The concert on Sunday will feature works that are grand, dramatic and energetic, such as The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba,the first movement from Handel’s oratorio Solomon, and four movements from his Water Music, written for King George I’s excursion up the Thames from Whitehall Palace to Chelsea in 1717.

Mozart’s final symphony, nicknamed the Jupiter, is regarded by many as among the greatest symphonies in classical music and the orchestra will play the last two movements.

Gluck’s Dance of the Blessed Spiritsfrom his opera Orpheus and Eurydice is a gentle

pastorale and Glinka’s Waltz from his ‘patriotic-heroictragic’ opera A Lifefor the Tzaris an elegant illustration of the singing and dancing part of an extravagant occasion.

Lester Morris, of Winston Hills, is one of Australia’s two foremost motorcycle writers in Australia, a commentator at race meetings, a trained opera singer, actor and stage director, and now, at the age of 92, the author of several children’s books.

If People Had Tails is a charming set of poems, pondering that very question.

Music to accompany was written by Steven Stanke in 2024 and Morris himself will

Concert of classical elegance

read his book, with music from a live orchestra.

Also on the program is Prokofiev’s evergreen Peter and the Wolf, again narrated by Morris.

This is a concert of timeless masterpieces of classical music that will remain cherished treaures in the world of music.

The concert will get underway at 2:30pm on Sunday, February 16, at Brentwood Village auditorium, Scaysbrook Dr, Kincumber.

Tickets are available at the venue of at symphonycentralcoast.com.au

Comedy cabaret in Gosford

Church of the Clitori, a critically acclaimed, laughout-loud comedy cabaret is coming to Fun Haus Factory, Gosford, this Sunday, February 16.

Created and performed by Lillian Rodrigues-Pang and Malika Elizabeth - two powerhouse Indigenous female creatives - this show is a bold, empowering, and wildly entertaining take on self-love, sexuality, and the narratives that shape us.

Think Sex and the City meets Book of Mormon - but with more sass and satire.

Blending satire, song, storytelling, and irreverent humour, this critically acclaimed show dismantles outdated taboos with intelligence and wit and takes the audience on a joyfully subversive journey, touching on history, philosophy, and science while ensuring that serious themes are met with riotous laughter.

Rodrigues-Pang is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning storyteller who fuses oral traditions with music, movement, and improvisation. She has performed on major festival stages, including Woodford Folk Festival and National Folk Festival, and works extensively in community storytelling for social change.

Malika Elizabeth is a seasoned comedian, musician, and public speaker, known for her razor-sharp wit and magnetic stage presence.

As a writer and theatre producer, she crafts narratives that challenge, entertain, and inspire.

Happy hour is from 4.30pm and the show gets underway at 5.30pm. Dinner is available at the Burger Bar from 4.30pm.

For reservations and tickets go to funhausfactory.org.au/ whats-on

Conductor Steven Stanke and the symphony

Lillian Rodrigues-Pang and Malika Elizabeth

Blues on the Mountain is back

Blues on the Mountain returns to the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall with its first event of 2025 on Saturday, February 15.

The all-ages family friendly event features one of Australia’s premier blues/rock acts, the Owen Campbell Band, plus special guest Bek Jensen.

Owen Campbell has cemented himself as one of Australia’s premier alternative blues/rock exports with three

best-selling studio albums, two EPs, and more than 12 years of national and international touring wowing audiences in all corners of the world from the USA to Ireland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Spain, The Netherlands, Japan, Hong Kong and India.

He has performed at the highest blues festival in the world – The Himalayan Blues Festival in Kathmandu, Nepal.

THU 13 FEB

THURSSLAY: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT: ‘Begins Here’ Anniversary Tour Drifters Wharf, Gosford 7pm

THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE: Pocket Bar, Terrigal 8pm

OPEN MIC NIGHT: The Sunken Monkey, Erina 8pm

FRI 14 FEB

PUPPY LOVE GUIDE DOGS: Terrigal Beach House 3:30pm

MOVIE UNDER THE STARS:

50 First Dates at Davistown RSL, Davistown 5:30pm

SUMMER SPANDEX: A Bent

Cabaret: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

JOHN WATERS - RADIO LUXEMBOURG: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm

SUMMER SESSIONS - NEAV: Avoca Beach Theatre Lawn 6pm

NEVER ENDING 80’S VS 90’S PARTY: The Sunken Monkey, Erina 8pm

BACHELOR GIRL WITH ETHAN BECKTON: Wyong Leagues Club, Wyong 7pm

DYLAN THE HITS: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca 8pm

YEAH THE GIRLS - MUSIC BINGO: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 9pm

SAT 15 FEB

LOVE LANES FESTIVAL: WYONG TOWN CENTRE 4PM

MENTAL HEALTH AND THE ACTOR’S LIFE: Red Tree Theatre, Tuggerah 1pm

Campbell’s debut album, Sunshine Road, was released in late 2013, reaching Number 1 on the overall charts (Australia), knocking Adele off the top spot in 2014.

Hailing from Sydney, Bek Jensen is as one of the city’s most dynamic artists, bringing forth a fusion of retro-soul, funk and RnB that transcends genres and invites audiences on a euphoric voyage.

BRACKETS AND JAM:

Kincumba Mountain Kiosk, Kincumber 1pm

KIKI KAROAKE: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

SAND VIPER, THE SUGAR BEATS & BAND DRIP: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 7pm

OVERTONES & WILD GINGER: Block ‘n Tackle, Kincumber 6:30pm

ABBALANCHE: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show Laycock St Theatre, Gosford 7:30pm

KELI HOLIDAY - JESTERMAN: Long Jetty Hotel 8:30pm

ROCKIT DUO: Long Jetty Hotel 8:30pm

BRENT MURPHY DUO: Wyong Leagues Club, Wyong 9pm

BLUES ON THE MOUNTAIN: Mangrove Mountain Hall, 6pm

THE WORKS OF GENESIS, PETER GABRIEL & PHIL COLLINS: Avoca Beach Theatre, 8pm

She captivates with her raw authenticity and glittering songcraft.

Take a trip down memory lane at the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall to a time when there weren’t any poker machines or TAB screens, just good times meeting up with friends and making new ones on the night, enjoying great music, dancing (optional) and food, all in a classic old school hall circa 1927.

SUN 16 FEB

PETE ROSS & THE SAPPHIRE: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 2pm

NATHAN FOLEY

“UNFORGETTABLE” TRIBUTE

SHOW: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca 2:30pm

CHURCH OF THE CLITORI: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 4:30pm

19 TWENTY BLUES & ROOTS

ROADSHOW: Everglades, Woy Woy 1pm

SUNDAY SESSION - KAIJIN SOLO: Block ‘n Tackle, Kincumber 3pm

CLASSICAL ELEGANCE: Brentwood Village, Kincumber 2:30pm

IOTA: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca 7:30pm

MON 17 FEB

AUTHOR TALK: Penelope Janu with Catheryn Hein - Tuggerah Library, Tuggerah 10:30am

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF Positively vile comedy

Positively Vile, a short hilarious melodrama set in colonial Norfolk Island and performed by the Frantastics, is available for bookings.

It is a perfect solution to a group’s entertainment needs and features a brilliant cast including Pam Brown, Bev Jones, Patricia Nissen, Helen O’Shea, Ann Wilden, convict choir of talented players and directed by Fran Kendall. No scenery, amplification or keyboard are required so it travels easily and suits any venue.

For those who would like to stay the night, camping sites are available right next to the venue (pre booking essential).

Doors open at 6pm with live music from 6.30pm.

Woodfired pizzas and hot food will be available for purchase on the night; BYO snacks and drinks.

Tickets are limited and available via events.humanitix. com/host/blues-on-themountain

WED 19 FEB

JERSEY GUYS (UK): The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm

O.B.3. FEATURING CHRIS

O’DEAR: Woy Woy Hotel, Woy Woy 6:30pm

TRACEY CHAPMAN TRIBUTE

SHOW: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca 7pm

LIVE MUSIC BY THE SEA: Killcare Surf Club Kiosk, Killcare 10:30am

THU 20 FEB

SCHITTS CREEK THEMED

TRIVIA: Budgewoi Hotel, Budgewoi 7pm

FUNHAUS DRAG BINGO: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

SPIT SCREENING Q&A WITH DAVID WENHAM: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca 6:30pm

FRI 21 FEB

KILLING KATIE - CONFESSIONS OF A BOOK CLUB: Woy Woy Little Theatre 8pm

The Frantastics meet every Monday in the Walter Baker Hall, 100 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy from 1pm to 3pm. Their repetoire consists of songs for all ages, musicals, Australian and Christmas songs, to name a few. Performances for other groups are approximately one hour long and a keyboard can be provided if necessary. For more information contact www.frantastics.org

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au Want even more exposure for your event? See our advertising opportunities by either scanning the QR code or visiting:

SOUL STATION TRIO: Wyong Leagues Club, Wyong 9pm

GOSFORD COMEDY CLUB: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

THE MUSIC OF SPRINGSTEEN MELLENCAMP SEGER: Avoca Beach Theatre, Avoca 8pm

EXERCISE YOUR BRAIN: Kincumber Library, Kincumber 10:30am

SAT 22 FEB

CENTRAL COAST DOGS DAY OUT: Terilbah Reserve, The Entrance North 9am

TOOHEYS RACE DAY: Gosford Race Club 12pm

SUMMER SESSIONS - CB GHOST: Avoca Beach Theatre Lawn 6pm

KILLING KATIE - CONFESSIONS OF A BOOK CLUB: Woy Woy Little Theatre, Woy Woy 8pm

LIVE MUSIC FT LOLO LOVINA: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

COMEDY FOR A CAUSE: Everglades, Woy Woy 8pm 18+

Owen Campbell; Bek Jensen

Get ready for a night of unfiltered love, laughter, and absolute mayhem as Fun Haus Factory presents its Annual Summer Spandex Cabaret on Friday, February 14.

Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a love cynic, or just up for an outrageous night out, this is the Central Coast’s biggest group date, packed with passion, glitter, and highenergy variety entertainment.

Bringing the electric spirit of the Sydney Mardi Gras Festival to Gosford, this wacky and wonderful cabaret features an all-star line-up of festival faves delivering a dazzling mix of burlesque, drag, live music, circus, dance, and storytelling—all with a cheeky twist.

Love, laughter and spandex

Hosting this unforgettable night is none other than Mother of the Haus, Glitta Supernova, alongside an explosive line-up of Benjamin Butterfly, Gaff E, Tommy Misa, Rosie Allways, and Mama MadB.

Each brings their own unique fire, from Benjamin Butterfly’s stunning blend of ballet, pole, and boylesque, to Gaff E’s highenergy punk disco antics, to Tommy Misa’s deeply moving explorations of queer and Pasifika identity, Rosie Allways’ comedic burlesque, and Mama MadB’s unapologetic, passiondriven drag performances full of First Nations pride.

For reservations and tickets, visit: funhausfactory.org.au/ whats-on

Entries now open for Central Coast Film Festival

Central Coast Film Festival is returning again following its fabulous first-year success in 2024.

Festival director Shane Emmett said the cinemas were packed every night and the foyers abuzz with international networking.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring it back in 2025,” he said.

Festival entries are now open for all categories.

Selected features, shorts, experimental films, music videos, animations, and documentaries will be

screened at Ettalong’s Cinema Paradiso, an Australian oneof-a-kind Mediterraneanthemed complex.

“This distinctive festival setting fosters culture, collaboration and escapism, making it the ideal destination for filmmakers from across

Australia and around the world to connect and celebrate the art of cinema,” Emmett said.

The festival accepts films of every genre and seeks to highlight passionate creative voices and stories that express individuality in all its forms.

It is a film festival run by filmmakers for filmmakers.

In the lead up to the event there will be a host of creativity sparking events - the first being a scriptwriting workshop in March.

“Central Coast Film Festival is the international festival the region needs, bringing some of the finest films and storytellers in the world into the local community,” Emmett said. The festival will take place from November 1-9. For more information go to centralcoastfilmfestival.com

Imagine tailored care delivered to you, on your schedule, not rounds and routines. Imagine an apartment home filled with all your furniture and memories, not a hospital bed in a bare room.

Imagine your own space to share with your partner, friends or a pet.

Glengara Care offers all of this, and more.

home, with care.

High energy performer Gaff E; Rosie Allways

Photo: Tim Levy

Brackets and Jam on Kincumba Mountain

The Brackets South crew proudly presents another wonderful Saturday afternoon of superb music and friendly company on top of beautiful Kincumba Mountain on February 15.

It is a BYO everything event – picnic, chair, food, drinks, to enjoy performances by emerging musicians and artists in a setting far removed from a smoky pub or noisy club.

The community-built venue is a mud brick and natural timber building which sits in a

bushland reserve, with panoramic views of Brisbane Water and the hills beyond.

The line-up includes Claire Heenan, Ron Sinclair & KingRhythm, Montana Southern country Rock & Blues Band, Dan Granero plus guest Muma Jane, Funky D & Soul J, plus drum jams.

Admission is $15 per person, cash or EFTPOS and children under 16 are free entry.

Claire Heenan is an experienced multi-

instrumentalist who lives and breathes songwriting.

Having been the bass player in The Venus Alkatraz and the frontwoman, bassist and songwriter of Brumby, Heenan is now playing under the name Luna Wolf Music, whose music has been described as having a haunting sound and a darkness that’s ethereal and comforting as well as very 90s grunge.

Ron Sinclair & KingRhythm (aka Phil King) perform a unique combination of guitar,

This is an intriguing story about free will and destiny and the uniqueness of the human spirit.

The long, fascinating saga is a mind-bending mystery with mystical choices, dramatic and philosophical elements.

It would be a smart choice for a book club pick, as there is so much to discuss and analyse.

The characters are well fleshed out and the storylines are clean.

Here One Moment starts out on an ordinary day where there is a flight delay of five minutes on a regular flight from Hobart to Sydney.

The delay stretches to 10 minutes and then an hour.

As passengers grapple with frustrations, and one

screaming baby lets everyone know his distress, an older woman named Cherry suddenly stands up and with complete clarity predicts how and when everyone on the plane will die.

Not a single passenger or crew member will later recall noticing her board the plane.

Here One Moment

By Liane Moriarty

hand drum, percussion and harmonies.

They met at Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2003 and have since built up a loyal following of fans of all ages and invitations to play at plenty of prestigious events both here and overseas.

Montana Southern country rock and blues band was founded by front vocalist/ songwriter Jane StewartKemble and guitarist/vocalist Dan Granero.

Ricky Conning is on bass guitar, Brett Tierney on drums and Steve Heard on piano/ Hammond organ.

They perform well-known classic and modern covers in a unique southern country rock style from artists such as Johnny Cash, Chris Stapleton, Gretchen Wilson, Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, Slim Dusty, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Vince Gill, Alan Jackson, Allman Brothers, ZZ Top and many more!

Funky D & Soul J bring a fun, energetic,positive performance to every show.

They performs all the wellknown classics right up to the latest funky/pop covers with songs from artists such as Chic, KC & The Sunshine Band, Aretha Franklin, Pointed Sisters, Stevie Wonder, Lizzo and many more.

The afternoon of music is at Kincumba Mountain Kiosk, top of Island View Dr off the west end of Kincumber St, Kincumber.

Nathan Foley to play Avoca

Green Point local Nathan Foley does it all – he is a singer, TV presenter, songwriter, actor and dancer.

And he is set to bring his new show, Unforgettable, to Avoca Beach on February 16.

Some passengers treat her as a joke, but for six passengers the news is deeply unsettling as their predicted deaths are not that far away and the circumstances surprisingly plausible.

The book follows the six passengers, dazed and confused, with a sense of desperation and urgency growing as Cherry’s predictions come true.

The characters are incredibly interesting and the narrative switches back and forth from the current timeline and the passengers to Cherry’s past, and her eventual present.

The book delivers a powerful message, advising readers to live their lives fully in their limited time.

Foley has had vast experience for 34 years on stage and television and is known primarily for his success as a singer/presenter for 10 years on Channel 9’s Hi-5, airing in more than 100 countries worldwide.

He also worked on Channel 10’s I Will Survive, which took him around outback Australia and to LA, Las Vegas and New York to perform.

In 2019 Foley hit the screens again on Channel 9’s The Voice.

He is the winner of three Logies, five ARIAs, and a Helpmann award with Hi-5 for the best live show.

Hi-5 is the only group to have won five consecutive ARIAs.

In 2022 Foley returned to his songwriting roots, releasing his original solo album Hurricane.

He added theatre to his line of credits performing in the controversial musical Jerry Springer the Opera at the Sydney Opera House alongside David Wenham followed by Grease On The Beach (playing

Kenickie) and then a world tour in the smash hit Mamma Mia.

Foley has won numerous accolades as a soloist including a Mo award as best young entertainer and is the first and only Australian to win the internationally prestigious Princess cruises entertainer of the year competition.

He has also made regular television appearances on shows such as Channel 9’s Midday Show, Channel 7’s The At Home Show and The Fashion Awards.

Foley toured the world nine times with Hi-5 to packed

crowds and completed a successful two-month tour of the UK.

His new show, Unforgettable, feature songs by Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davies Jr, Connie Francis Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison and more.

It is a two-hour smooth tribute to the music of a generation from the crooners, the rock ‘n’ rollers and the soul singers of the 50s and 60s.

It will be at Avoca Beach Theatre at 2.30pm on Sunday, February 16. Book on 4382 1777.

Claire Hennan; Ron Sinclair and King Rhythm; Dan Granero, Muma Jane, and Montana Southern Country Rock Blues Band

Nathan Foley

Gallows loop

Vote into office 85. North American herd animal 86. Ask (question)

Screeches

Religious choral work

1. Swearword 2. Major blood vessel

Delicious!

Pudding starch

Leg/foot joints

Stupor

Bakes

29. Bigger

32. Tell untruths

35. Animosity (3,4)

37. Valuable possession

38. Ignite (cigarette) (5,2)

40. Wind blasts

41. Stared fixedly

42. More agreeable

43. Hairdressing shop

44. Colloquial language

47. Breakfast foods

51. Depress 52. Fierce

53. Incendiary bomb material

54. Stab

58. Monks’ home

59. Phone text (1,1,1)

61. Beasts of burden

63. Make amends

64. Prattle

65. Ladybird or firefly

66. Merits

68. Wheel spindles 71. Black wood 72. Cut with scissors 74. Is seated 76. Toddler’s aprons

78. College supervisor 80. Bullfight cry 83. Thrilled exclamation

See page 26 for last edition’s solutions or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/puzzle-solutions

KILLING KATIE

by Tracey Trinder Directed by Kelli Ward

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Central Coast Council’s popular Dogs Day Out returns on Saturday, February 22, at The Entrance North.

The much-loved community event promises a fun-filled day for our furry friends, their owners and the entire community.

Now in its fourth year, this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever, with 30 local businesses hosting stalls, training programs and demonstrations.

Council’s Director Environment and Planning Jamie Loader said the event was a fantastic opportunity to promote responsible pet ownership in a

Dogs Day Out will be bigger and better

fun and engaging way.

“This annual event celebrates our furry friends while reminding us of the importance of responsible dog ownership,” he said.

“Since the event’s inception, we’ve seen a remarkable increase in participation from local businesses and pet service providers and this year’s event features a diverse range of stalls, services and training programs.

“Our partners at SoCares will once again provide free microchipping and check-yourchip services, while the Animal Welfare League will offer free health checks, low-cost vaccinations and valuable pet

care advice.

“By promoting free microchipping, we aim to increase the number of microchipped pets on the Central Coast, facilitating the

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT will host a day of puppy love for Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14 at Terrigal Beach House.

There will be an opportunity between 3.30pm and 7.30pm to immerse yourself in the world of Guide dogs and puppies and meet lots of adorable pups and cuddly therapy and ambassadors dogs.

safe return of lost pets to their owners.”

Event highlights will include: grooming presentation; agility demonstration; fancy dress competition; best trick

competition; pug race; free dog microchipping and health checks; low-cost vaccinations; acoustic music from Toby Wells; doggy toys, clothes and treats; and food and drink stalls for the humans.

Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said dogs played a vital role in many local families’ lives, offering companionship, social interaction and a sense of security.

“Our community deeply values their pets, and Council’s Dogs Day Out offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the special bond we share with them, while socialising with other dogs and their owners

Valentine’s Day puppy love

Terrigal Beach House will be transformed with a heart-filled Valentine’s theme including Cupid’s photo booth so guests can snap some labradorable selfies with cute pups and bask in the puppy love.

It will also be a chance to speak to world-renowned training experts to get the inside scoop on all things Guide dogs, from the top secret training programtotheDogmatchmaking

process and much more.

Guide Dogs NSW /ACT is urgently looking for volunteer puppy raisers in the local area to give these pups loving homes, so this event offers the perfect opportunity to learn more about this incredible role and what it takes to raise a future Guide dog.

Guide Dogs Puppy Development Adviser Eddie Sullivan said puppy raising was at the heart of their work, and

these events were a fun way for people to get involved and learn more about this incredible role.

“It’s a perfect way to bring together community members, supporters, and animal lovers to not only experience the joy of puppies but also understand the life-changing impact that a Guide Dog can have on the lives of those living with low vision or blindness,” he said. Tickets are $5 at the door.

from across the region,” he said.

“This event promotes responsible pet ownership and increases community awareness about the importance of providing our pets with the love and care they truly deserve.”

The free event will take place from 9am-3pm on Saturday, February 22, at Terilbah Reserve, Wilfred Barrett Dr, The Entrance North

Residents are encouraged to bring along their dogs to the event but they must be on a leash.

For further information about the event search ‘Dogs Day Out’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ whats-on

This year’s event will have even more things to do

Business & Property

Central Coast Council has three proposals for new childcare centres on its books for consideration at present, but two of them have been met with significant dissatisfaction from their communities.

Plans for a centre at East Gosford and another at Berkeley Vale have attracted many objections, with common themes being noise pollution, traffic and parking issues, safety risks in already congested narrow streets, preservation of quiet residential areas.

The centre at 34-34A Donegal Rd, Berkeley Vale, over three parcels of land between Kilkenny Pde, will cater for 78 pre-school children and be operated by the Little Miracles group.

It will operate on weekdays from 7am to 6pm with 13 staff. Although there was a significant number of objections some neighbouring residents are in favour, saying it would increase a sense of community in the area, provide more local jobs, and appeal to younger families to buy into the area with a much-needed daycare centre close by.

New childcare centres not backed by community

Perspective of the East Gosford centre

However, there are concerns about pedestrian safety with increased traffic parking on the narrow streets where families walk, push prams and children ride scooters or bikes on the roadway because of open gutters, steep terrain and no footpaths.

Another reason for objection is the potential for screaming children at play outdoors to disrupt the peaceful residential area.

This was also a major concern about another proposed childcare centre at 24 Waratah St, East Gosford, opposite an already established pre-school which has operated for more than 10 years.

There are also privacy issues with large glass windows overlooking neighbouring outdoor living spaces and opposite bedrooms.

The proposed two-storey childcare centre for 70 children will have multiple outdoor playrooms on both levels and basement parking – nine spaces for staff and 12 for visitors.

This centre will operate weekdays from 7am to 6pm and residents are worried about the disruption that noise

will have on their peace and quiet.

Residents have safety concerns about insufficient onsite parking and increased traffic movement – they say that even now if cars are parked on both sides of the road only one car can pass through at a time.

Other concerns include stormwater management, blocking of light and overshadowing, construction issues and insufficient staff at the centre.

The third childcare centre being considered for approval by Council is at 167 Serpentine Rd, Terrigal.

It will accommodate113 children, 18 staff and there will be off-street parking for 38 vehicles.

Proposed hours of operation are Monday to Friday between 7am and 6pm.

The three development applications can be viewed on Council’s website – Terrigal (2113/2024), Berkeley Vale (1653/2024) and East Gosford (409/2024).

Proposed childcare centre at Terrigal

How the Berkeley Vale centre will look

Why some approved houses are not built

Central Coast Council estimates that about 7580% of approved development proposals for dwellings on the Coast are actually built.

The estimate comes as Local Government NSW (LGNSW) rejected recent claims from industry bodies that councils are responsible for the state failing to meet its housing supply targets.

LGNSW said that rising construction costs, labour shortages and higher interest rates for loans were all contributing to a “perfect storm” that continued to negatively impact housing supply across the state.

Central Coast Councillor

Corinne Lamont asked for any recent figures that showed the development consents and the corresponding number of dwellings on the Coast, after Coast Community News asked councillors to respond to the LGNSW comments.

Council said its Housing Strategy showed that 10,742 dwellings were approved between July 2014 and April 2021.

An estimate of 8,309 dwellings – or 77.35% – were completed over the same period.

Council said that those figures were estimates only.

Approved development applications generally have five years to commence development and in some cases applicants do not need to advise Council that works have commenced.

In other cases works may have commenced but stalled for one reason or another.

As such, the collection of reliable data on what applications are commenced and/or completed is difficult for most development types, Council said.

During 2024 the NSW Government set a target for the Central Coast to achieve 9,400 dwellings completed across the local government area by 2029.

This equates to about 1,567 dwellings built per year.

But Council says its ability to influence completions in any meaningful way is very difficult.

“There are no powers to compel applicants to lodge development proposals for land that they hold, and no powers to compel a developer to commence a development once consent is granted,” Council said.

The NSW Productivity Commission’s Review of Housing Supply Challenges and Policy Options for NSW, which it released in August last year, included a chapter titled Why NSW is not Building Enough Homes Right Now.

The reasons listed were: construction costs and problems with supply of material and skilled labour; the sector being at capacity building infrastructure projects such as health, education, transport leaving limited resources to work in the residential space; and cost of living pressures affecting finances.

In April this year, a State parliamentary review into “zombie DAs” is due to be tabled.

Zombie DAs are historical development consents which were not time limited, including projects which were approved years or sometimes decades ago but remain unfinished.

What’s on at Narara Ecovillage in February

Open day at Narara

If you’ve ever wondered what Narara Ecovillage is all about, you’re invited to the next open day tour on February 22.

Visitors will learn how the village is putting ideas around ecological, social and economic into action.

The tour takes in the shared food growing, natural retreats and permaculture spaces, shared community and workplaces and examples of highly efficient low-carbon homes.

And more based on what you’re interested in on the day.

Because it’s a Saturday, the coffee cart will be open, selling great drinks and healthy food.

Come prepared for all weather and walking on a rural property.

Children are always welcome; however, participants are asked to leave pets at home.

Also on February 22, a free online event Rehydrate Earth with Damon Gameau will be held between 4pm and 5.30pm.

European scientists discuss the burgeoning field of the New Water Paradigm, and a hopeful pathway toward climate healing and restoration and repairing the biotic pump.

Business women gather for festival events

Community & Business Women’s Network Central Coast is collaborating once again with the Central Coast Festival of Women committee to bring three International Women’s Day events.

International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8 is a celebration of the achievements and contributions of women.

Attending the special events is a way to participate in this celebration and recognise the

accomplishments of the women in your life and community.

An International Women’s Day Breakfast will be held from 7am to 9am on Friday, March 7 at Mingara Recreation Club, Tumbi Umbi.

Guest speaker will be Sara Foster.

Norah Head Sporties is the venue for the annual luncheon from 12pm to 2pm on Friday, March 7 and Sarah Kearns will be guest speaker.

Charity Partner for both events is Because We Care Boutique.

To purchase tickets online go to www.stickytickets.com.au and search for either International Women’s Day Breakfast Mingara 2025 or Luncheon Norah Head.

Tickets are on sale until Friday, February 28.

The Central Coast 2026 WOW Festival Think-in will be held on Tuesday, March 11 when local business women and

organisations from across the Central Coast will get together to brainstorm ideas and begin planning for the 2026 event. It will be held at Red Tree Theatre, Tuggerah, from 2pm to 4pm and although it is a free event, attendees should register by March 1 at www. stickytickets.com.au /Central Coast 2026 WOW Festival Think-In

The inquiry will examine the impact of historical development consents on the NSW planning system, development industry and property ownership.

The committee will also consider policy and legal solutions to address concerns about historical development consents, including any barriers in using current legal provisions to respond to the issue.

The inquiry will look at what the benefits and costs to taxpayers will be if action is taken on the issue.

This is being described as a possible game changer for climate and one people have been longing for.

The My Deep Ecology immersion workshop held over February 21 to 23 was a sellout.

The event was co-facilitated by Tema Milstein, Professor of Environment and Society at UNSW accompanied by firsttime facilitators Jade CourtGold and Sol Blackwood.

Another Narara Deep Ecology workshop will be held over April 11-13.

Ecovillage

Sara Foster

Sarah Kearns

Merilyn Vale

More than 20% of approved housing is not actually built

Council says it is difficult to influence building completion

Strong employment growth with 21,200 new jobs

Australian Bureau of Statistics Labour Force figures released this month reveal that in the past twoand-a-half years the Central Coast has grown by 21,200 new jobs, bringing local employment to 172,700.

This includes an extra 2,300 extra jobs in 2024 alone, and an extra 10,400 new jobs for local women since 2022.

Across Australia, an extra 444,400 jobs were created last year – the second largest rise in a calendar year on record. Of those, 67% were full-time positions.

Central Coast Federal MPs Pat Conroy (Shortland), Emma McBride (Dobell) and Dr Gordon Reid (Robertson) say that strong job creation in the region has occurred through workplace reforms introduced by the Labor Federal Government.

They say these include: higher pay and stronger job security for workers; real wage growth for four consecutive quarters with the average worker now earning an extra $150 a week compared to two years ago; increases to minimum and award wages; the lowest gender pay gap level

in history; same job same pay laws delivering significant pay rises to labour hire workers; new rights for truck drivers to stay safe; new rights for gig economy workers like rideshare and food delivery workers including unfair dismissal; more rights for casual workers; the right to say ‘no’ to unpaid overtime through

Right to Disconnect; and the criminalisation of intentional wage theft.

“Labor promised to create more jobs and that’s exactly what we’ve delivered for Coasties,” Conroy said.

“Under the Albanese Labor Government, inflation has more than halved, we’ve overseen

the creation of 1.1 million jobs – the most jobs created on record in a Parliamentary term, and real wages are growing again.”

McBride said the new jobs were in vital sectors in the community.

“Labor is supporting locals to find local jobs with our free

TAFE helping people upskill and reskill,” she said.

And Reid said the Federal Labor Government was working hard to ensure it created more jobs and economic opportunities for people living on the Central Coast.

“From free TAFE, support for apprentices and more university places, our policies are helping people secure the jobs of their dreams,” he said.

“We are a government that supports our communities, and we will continue to create the economic conditions that helps support jobs creation.”

Free TAFE helps create jobs in vital sectors of the community

BUSINESS BRIEF

Restaurant and catering excellence

Nominations for the 2025 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence are now officially open.

The Restaurant & Catering Association runs this prestigious program celebrating the outstanding achievements of businesses within the restaurant and catering industry and rewards them for extraordinary food,high standards,exceptional service and innovation.

In 2024 the Central Coast had three category winners: Spices 29 Goan Indian Restaurant at Woy Woy; The Cowrie Restaurant at Terrigal; and Lago Cucina at Budgewoi Hotel.

There are separate categories for regional businesses, and the major awards are Casual Dining of the Year, Caterer of the Year, Restaurant of the Year, along with a multitude of other awards for many types of restaurants and caterers.

For more information: events@rca.asn.au or phone 1300 722 878.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Doylo amalgamates with NBC

The Doyalson-Wyee RSL Club (The Doylo) has officially amalgamated with Northmead Bowling, Recreation & Sporting Club (NBC Sports), effective from February 5.

The strategic partnership marks a new chapter for both clubs, enhancing member benefits and securing a sustainable future for NBC.

The amalgamation is a significant milestone that aligns with The Doylo’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and fostering vibrant social spaces.

By combining resources and expertise, the partnership will

ensure that NBC continues to thrive while providing enhanced facilities, services, and experiences for all members.

“We are excited to welcome NBC Sports club into The Doylo family,” Doylo CEO Darren Thornton said.

“This amalgamation allows us to preserve NBC’s proud history while bringing new opportunities and improvements that will benefit members for years to come.” The clubs will work together to ensure a smooth transition, prioritising open communication with members and maintaining valued traditions.

Taskforce to tackle fairness in rental market

Renters in NSW now have a dedicated Rental Taskforce to hold landlords and real estate agents to account and will address rental law violations following the Government’s most significant rental reforms in more than a decade.

With an $8.4M investment, NSW Fair Trading’s Rental

Taskforce will analyse activities and trends within the rental market and conduct compliance activities such as inspections, audits, and blitzes to prevent and act on breaches of the law.

The Rental Taskforce will focus on three key priorities: ending solicited rent bidding; implementing renting reforms to prevent no-grounds

evictions; and ensuring improved responses to repairs and maintenance in the rental market.

The NSW Government is also working to deliver cost-ofliving relief to renters by delivering a Portable Rental Bond Scheme, which is due to be instigated in the second half of 2025.

For more information on changes to NSW rental laws, go to the NSW Fair Trading website at: www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Anoulack Chanthivong, said inspectors would be out in full force to ensure real estate agents and landlords were complying with new and existing rental laws to

ease the stress placed on renters by things such as nogrounds evictions and rent bidding.

“While the majority of agents and landlords are doing the right thing, this $8.4M investment targets bad actors who make life tougher for renters,” she said.

Ready to move in. Retirement units from $330k.

Be part of Reynolds Court Retirement Village which offers a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and mix with like-minded people. This friendly community has a Residential Care home adjacent with access to many social activities held at the community centre. You can be involved as much or as little as you like. The choice is yours!

The outdoor BBQ area sets the scene for gatherings with friends and neighbours. If desired, take advantage of our Home Care services, tailored to make life even more effortless.

Features include:

• Self-contained 1 & 2 bedroom units

• Newly renovated kitchens and bathrooms

• Air conditioning

• Maintenance and gardening included

• Community centre & chapel

• Outdoor BBQ

• Optional Home Care services

• Residential Aged Care onsite For

Matt Edmunds of NBC and The Doylo’s Breen Roberts

GARDENING WITH CHOOKS

First of all, you need to be aware that although chickens love eating weeds and so can be the answer to your weed nightmares, they are not picky or careful when it comes to your treasured garden and would view your veggie plot as a smorgasbord.

You will need to fence off areas of your garden that you do not want them in but don’t dismiss the fact that chickens are wonderful pest and weed controllers so let them free range over areas that are between plantings.

The poo!

Chicken droppings are an ontap fertiliser when you have chooks.

In a small domestic set up you are probably never going to have too much but if you do?

It’s something other than eggs that you can also share with the neighbours. Got snails?

Not for long with chooks on the job!

Let them lose and they will happily collect them for you or here’s a great game a good friend of mine loved as a child.

Karen’s mum would give her brother and her an old milo tin

and ask them to collect the snails from around the garden for the chooks.

She made it more appealing but paying one cent a snail but I’m not sure what the going rate today is.

You could add curl grubs to the bounty as well!

HOME SWEET HENHOUSE

An enclosed ‘chicken run’ is actually a legal requirement and provides protection for your chickens while giving them a place to spread their wings and scratch around the earth.

The best structural protection is to bury chicken wire that is firmly secured to the bottom

THIS WEEK YOU COULD PLANT

Beans, beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, cauliflower, celery, chicory, cress, cucumbers, endive, herbs, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, marrows, mustard greens, parsnips, potato tubers, radish, rhubarb (crowns), salsify, spring onions, silverbeet swede, sweet corn, zucchinis, turnip, ageratum, alyssum, boronia, calceolaria, calendula, cyclamen, forget-me-not, linaria, nasturtium, pansy, poppy, stock, verbena, vinca, viola, wallflower

edge of runs and coops and continues completely under the ground of the area.

This is to stop predators from digging under your structures and getting to your lovely chickens.

As for space the general guide is 0.5m per chook in the hen house plus 1m in the run.

You will want your chook house to capture winter sun and be provided with summer shade.

WHICH CHICK FOR YOU?

Australorp are great layers and make excellent pets as their nature is very friendly. Other pure breeds to consider are Barnevelder, Cochin, Dominique and don’t forget miniature Bantams.

Day-old Chicks are cheap, and they are cute, but you may end up with males as sexing is not always possible.

Pullets are chickens that are under a year of age and the usual starter chicken that most people buy.

At this age their sex and their laying ability have been determined.

Another term used is ‘Point of Lay ‘chickens.

FEEDING

YOUR NEW MATES

A balanced diet is crucial for everyone and that includes chickens.

While they do love your kitchen scraps, weeds and pests, they also need a lot more to survive and this is where modern chicken feed comes in.

You will need to feed either pellets, grains or a mash and then there is also ‘crumble’ which is basically crushed up pellets.

These mixes have the protein, minerals and vitamins that your chooks need to thrive along with the additional calcium for good eggs.

Food scraps and foraging are part of the equation along with feed and happy chooks enjoy a little ‘scatter’ which is whole grains tossed upon an area for them to graze upon.

CHOOK CHALLENGES

Chickens are often accused of attracting vermin, disease and even snakes.

While failing to keep your coop and run clean may attract pests, the answer is simply to be a good, clean chicken keeper.

There are plants that are toxic to chickens so you will need to do your research but a few common ones you need to be aware of are: avocado, beans, the leaves of tomatoes and rhubarb along with generally toxic plants like trumpet vines, azaleas and daffodils.

Probably the biggest issue you will face with chickens is that they really don’t like stress. They won’t deal well with boredom, sudden changes, aggressive coop-mates or even changes in diet so all need to be managed by slow introduction sand/or the removal of stressors.

Like any animal, they can become sick, diseased or suffer from a pest infestation so you need to be alert to changes in behaviour that might indicate an issue.

An excellent book for an indepth exploration of all aspects of chicken keeping, particularly in Australia, including a handy health section is: ‘Backyard Chickens: How to Keep Healthy Hens’ by David Ingham.

Health & Education

Back in the water for a good cause

The Central Coast Kook Warriors are preparing to raise money for cancer research, getting in the water every day for a surf or swim as part of SurFebruary.

The annual event is held in support of Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, which conducts ground-breaking research into cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and wellness.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging Coasties to support the efforts of the Kook Warriors and the work of Chris O’Brien Lifehouse by getting involved in the SurFebruary initiative.

“What a fantastic opportunity for the community to take advantage of our gorgeous Central Coast beaches while also supporting an incredible cause,” she said.

The Kook Warriors

“Cancer takes an immeasurable toll on the lives of individuals, their families and our wider community, not just physically, but also emotionally and financially.

“Supporting the Kook Warriors’ SurFebruary efforts is a thoughtful way for our community to show support for this vital research.”

The Cancer Council says one in two Australians will be

diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime.

The Chris O’Brien Lifehouse offers world-class facilities and treatments to provide comprehensive and expert care to people affected by cancer, while also conducting inspirational and innovative research.

Cancer survivor and Kook Warriors team leader, Vanessa Hession, has a very personal

reason for joining the SurFebruary cause.

“Going through cancer, having survived that, I want everyone to have the best opportunity and chance to get through, and the research at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse is next level,” she said.

“Surfing is something that everyone loves; it brings the community together.

“Our hope for SurFebruary is that we are able to rally the community and build momentum for this amazing cause.”

Coasties who would like to participate in SurFebruary, whether by signing up to participate or by sponsoring the Kook Warriors, can find out more at www.surfebruary. com/fundraisers/KookWarriors

140 years of caring for older people

Bolton Clarke Home and Community support is celebrating the start of its 140th anniversary year with the opening of a new community hub in Wyong to support local older people with aged care services.

The hub will act as a central location to help people age well at home, providing a dedicated local team for the not-forprofit’s existing home care services on the Central Coast.

Chief Operating Officer Home and Community Support, Deidre McGill said Bolton Clarke started home care in

Australia with a single nurse in Melbourne in 1885.

“Now, 140 years on, we support 130,000 people on the Coast and across Australia with connected care services including home care, specialised nursing, allied health, retirement living and residential aged care,” she said.

“With more than one in four (27%) Central Coast residents aged 60 or older, our new Wyong hub will work with Coast seniors and communities to help people live and age positively.”

The Wyong hub will provide extra support including help with navigating My Aged Care for older people and their families as well as free education sessions on topics related to positive ageing.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together to help tailor services for older people and their families across the Central Coast,” McGill said.

Opening its doors on Thursday, February 6, the hub welcomed industry partners and locals to explore the many services now available to better support the ageing population on the Central Coast region.

Second forum for women’s healthcare

A second Central Coast Women’s Health Forum has been organised for Tuesday, February 18, to provide an opportunity to discuss women’s healthcare in the region.

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid will facilitate the forum and will be joined by former nurse and Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney and local doctor Colette Hourigan, a specialist in women’s healthcare.

More than 150 people attended the first women’s health forum in 2023, which included Assistant Minister Emma McBride and Dr Kelly Teagle.

“When I ran for office in 2022, my number one priority was to help address the issues affecting our healthcare services.

“I remain committed to this objective, and I will always use my position to advocate for better healthcare on the Central Coast.”

The second Central Coast Women’s Health Forum will take place at the Impact Centre, 19 Chetwynd Rd, Erina, on February 18.

It will commence at 5.30pm and finish around 7pm.

HEALTH BRIEF New group for parents raising children with disability

Parenting a child with disability comes with unique challenges, and many families experience social isolation, stress, and difficulty finding support, says Kindred – a not-forprofit peer support organisation.

Kindred is launching new Catch-Ups for parents raising children with disability on the Central Coast.

These relaxed gatherings will provide parents and carers with a space to connect, share resources, and build a supportive community with others families who truly understand the journey of raising children with disability, developmental delay, or autism.

Recent surveys show that 56% of carers feel socially isolated, and 91% report emotional and physical exhaustion as one of their biggest challenges.

Many parents struggle to find local support, with some waiting up to six years before connecting with a peer support group.

The impact of isolation on mental wellbeing can be significant, but having a supportive community can make a real difference.

“Our first forum, at Umina Beach, was well attended with over 150 women contributing to policy discussions.

“The information that was recorded at our first forum was conveyed to the Minister for

“Our second Central Coast Women’s Health Forum will again provide local women an opportunity to discuss issues surrounding women’s health and service provision,” Reid said.

Health which helped strengthen healthcare services and led to improvements including recent PBS listings for drugs that help women living with endometriosis.

“Our second forum aims to again be an opportunity for women in the region to

identify areas in women’s healthcare where the Federal Government can improve.

“The forum is open to anyone in our community passionate about healthcare services and wanting to contribute to policy discussions that lead to better healthcare.

Registration is essential as the venue has limited capacity.

To register, visit drgordonreidmp.com.au/ourcoast-community/secondcentral-coast-women-sforum/, call Reid’s office on 322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid. MP@aph.gov.au

Health specialists gather for symposium

This week researchers, clinicians, research organisations and community stakeholders are gathering at the Central Coast Clinical School and Research Institute to share ideas, best practice and present findings from research projects and pilots conducted on the Central Coast.

The three-day event is the fifth Research and Innovation Symposium hosted by Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) and has been developed in partnership with the University of Newcastle.

Delegates attend workshops, network and hear from 60

different presenters – all showcasing innovative and exciting pilots and research projects conducted on the Central Coast.

Professor Nick Goodwin, CCLHD Director of Research, said the Central Coast was emerging as a regional centre for research.

“The symposium celebrates the Central Coast’s unique contribution to research and innovation in health and healthcare,” he said.

One study to be showcased at the symposium is the CLEEN study (the CLEaning and Enhanced disiNfection study).

Conducted at Gosford Hospital and led by Professor Brett Mitchell, the CLEEN study is the first randomised controlled study in the world to provide level 1 evidence on the impact of additional cleaning of

shared equipment on rates of hospital acquired infections.

he study demonstrates the critical role of dedicated cleaning protocols in infection prevention and has implications for healthcare systems worldwide.

A local pilot study which has significantly improved patients’ daily lives will also be presented by study leader and cancer nurse Jacqueline Jagger.

The pilot offered patients with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, the opportunity to self-administer their cancer drug, bortezomib at home.

Interviews conducted as part of the study reveal that the self-

administration program significantly improved patients’ daily lives, with time savings the most frequently reported benefit.

Professor Goodwin is looking forward to highlighting the size and scale of research efforts here on the Coast.

“The symposium gives us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the impact our research teams are having in improving health outcomes and experiences for our community here on the Central Coast and also nationwide and internationally,” he said.

Led by local parent Kristy, who is raising a neurodivergent child, these catch-ups will offer a warm and understanding space for families.

Kristy will help facilitate conversations, provide a listening ear, and even shout a coffee.

The first meet-up will be held at Rotary Park, Terrigal, a fully fenced safe space perfect for families.

Parents are welcome to bring their children or come alone –whatever works best for them.

“Parenting a child with disability can be overwhelming at times, and having people who understand makes all the difference, Kristy said.

“These catch-ups are about connection, support, and knowing you’re not alone.”

The group will meet fortnightly from Tuesday, March 4 and will expand across the Central Coast in the coming months.

For more information, and to register visit https://kindred. org.au/events/ or reach out to Kristy directly on 0422146878

Bolton Clarke Care Manager Dianne Robinson (standing) with Ann Paterson

Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid chats to Narara mother Carmel Corda with baby Bonnie

Professor Nick Goodwin

Nutritious school lunches that don’t cost the earth

As the cost-of-living crisis bites, packing a nutritious school lunch is tougher than ever.

Ultra-processed snacks dominate shelves, but smart swaps can save money and boost children’s health.

Box Divvy, a communitydriven food network, helps families access fresh, whole foods and pantry items up to 30% cheaper than supermarkets.

The organisation has many hubs across the region run by community members including the Fountaindale hub run by Christy Passlow.

“As a mum of four I know how challenging it can be to create healthy lunchboxes without spending a fortune,” she said.

“Box Divvy allows me to access a wide range of healthy products, including great value fresh fruit and veg.

“By shopping seasonally, I can make our budget stretch further, plus our hub community is a great source of recipes and ideas.

“My children love vegetable sticks and dip, honey popcorn and cheese with crackers.

“They also enjoy homemade sushi – I cook the H2G sushi rice from Box Divvy the night before then just put together in the morning.

“At the moment whole watermelons are such good value, I freeze slices so that on hot days it can be put into lunchboxes frozen.

“By crunch and sip time it’s defrosted and ready to eat, although still cold and refreshing.”

Research shows that diets high in processed foods are linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and mental health challenges, particularly in children.

“Families are feeling the pinch, but healthy lunches don’t have to cost a fortune,”

Box Divvy co-founder Jayne Travers-Drapes said.

“Simple swaps, like using fresh, whole foods instead of processed snacks, can save money and boost nutrition.

“Community food networks can help parents access quality produce at fair prices, ensuring kids get a balanced, nourishing lunch.”

Some simple and nutritious lunchbox ideas include:

Keep it colourful: Bright, fresh foods are naturally more appealing and require little preparation – just wash and chop ahead of time for graband-go options, think carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and berries.

Make protein fun: Quick options like cheese cubes, boiled eggs, or pre-cooked chicken strips make lunch packing faster and more nutritious. Consider healthier alternatives to processed meats like salami, hotdogs,

and sausages, which are high in harmful chemicals like N-nitroso compounds, nitrite, and nitrate preservatives, linked to cancers. Opt for tuna, turkey, beef, cheeses, tempeh, or lunch box tofu instead.

Skip the pre-packaged snacks: Save time and money by batch-prepping homemade popcorn, energy balls, or yoghurt and fruit in reusable containers.

Get creative and involve children: Transform lunchtime into a fun and engaging activity by involving children in the process. Set a project like buying a scrapbook to collect lunch box ideas and recipes they enjoy – adding comments or drawings for each entry. Websites like Pinterest can be a treasure trove of inspiration. Think leftovers: Cook once, eat twice. Pack last night’s roast chicken, pasta, or rice bowls for a no-prep, nutritious school lunch.

NSW rollout for intervention program developed on the Coast

Patients who have surgery for breast cancer across NSW are benefiting from an innovative, patient-centred program developed by a team on the Central Coast which is detecting and preventing chronic lymphoedema.

Patients who undergo surgery for breast cancer and have their lymph nodes removed are at heightened risk of developing chronic lymphoedema, a condition which involves painful swelling of the limbs and trunk and requires lifelong treatment.

A team of physiotherapists at Central Coast Local Health District saw an opportunity to prevent or halt the progression of lymphoedema through early detection.

The program enrols patients at the time of their cancer diagnosis and provides ongoing monitoring, education, and

intervention throughout their cancer treatment and for up to two years after surgery.

Traditionally up to 30% of patients will develop lymphoedema after breast cancer surgery, however, under this new model of care, CCLHD reduced chronic lymphoedema to less than 5% of enrolled patients, paving the way for the program to be rolled out across NSW.

The program is available at 32 clinical sites across 13 local health districts in NSW.

Since 2021, more than 6,500 patients have been part of the program.

Evidence shows it has successfully prevented chronic lymphoedema in more than 700 patients, with only 4% developing the condition.

As well as delivering lifechanging benefits for patients, an economic evaluation of the program showed for every

dollar invested in the prevention program, approximately $8 was saved in treatment costs for patients who would otherwise have developed chronic lymphoedema.

The program is funded through the Commonwealth

Government’s Lymphoedema Garments and Allied Health Therapy Program.

Central Coast patient Christine Walker said learning about a cancer diagnosis was an anxiety-fuelled time.

“When I learnt that I was at risk of developing lymphoedema after my surgery, I was extremely worried,” she said.

“I had an amazing experience with the early intervention program.

“My treatment is personalised; I have regular check-ins, and I have exercises to do at home.

“I believe the more information you have the better, it means that I know what’s next and how to deal with it.

“For me, the program has been very reassuring.”

Central Coast Local Health District Senior Physiotherapist and Lymphoedema Practitioner, Courtney Clapham, said that in the past many patients had no knowledge of lymphoedema until they were told they had it.

“Our patients are supported and well-informed, with the program giving them the chance to take some control of

their cancer journey and health outcomes going forward,” she said.

“I’m so proud that the program has not only improved outcomes for our patients here on the Central Coast, but across NSW.”

Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said this world leading early intervention program highlighted the life-changing work being done by healthcare professionals on the Central Coast.

“We have already seen how effective this program has been in detection and prevention, with statistics showing the number of patients developing chronic lymphoedema has reduced.

“This World Cancer Day it is important that we recognise the important work that is having a direct impact in our community.”

• Divorces

• De facto

• Children's Issues

• Property

• Binding Financial Agreements

WILLS & ESTATES

• Probate, Wills & Disputes

• Power of Attorney

• Enduring Guardianship

CONVEYANCING

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business

• Leasing

• Retirement Villages

Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford FAMILY

COURT APPEARANCES

• Criminal Law

• AVO Matters

• Traffic Matters

• Drink Driving

Email: lemery@lindaemery.com.au

Web: www.lindaemery.com.au

Involve children in packing lunch boxes

Senior physiotherapist and lymphoedema practitioner Courtney Clapham

March past kicks off surf lifesaving championships

The highly anticipated Surf Life Saving Central Coast Branch Championships are underway, continuing this weekend at Avoca.

Members ranging from under-8s to Masters are taking to the sand and water over two weekend to showcase their skill, dedication, and competitive spirit across various surf sports events.

The first found was held at Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club last Saturday, February 8, when athletes from Central Coast clubs gathered to compete in the Opens and Boat Championships, with boards, skis, and boats ready for action.

Masters competitors competed at Umina on Sunday, February 9 in their respective age-group categories.

This weekend – Saturday and Sunday, February 15 and 16will see two full days of competition for the youngest competitors at Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club, with U8s to U14s showcasing the traditions of surf lifesaving.

The weekend will kick off with a March Past Parade before athletes take to the sand and water for the pursuit of club glory.

On Sunday, February 16, the prestigious Junior Lifesaver of the Year award will be announced, recognising one U14 male and female for their outstanding achievements in

surf lifesaving and contributions to the community.

The Junior Lifesaver of the Year Program focuses on recognising and rewarding young members, highlighting leadership, teamwork, and social awareness, while fostering a deeper connection to surf lifesaving.

Surf Life Saving Central

Coast’s Branch Championships offer competitors the opportunity to compete in challenging surf sports events, making the event a significant milestone for both emerging talent and seasoned competitors.

CEO of the Central Coast branch Michael Hyslop said the Branch Championships were a

highlight of the surf lifesaving season on the Central Coast.

“It’s inspiring to see such a broad range of competitors, from the youngest U8s to the experienced Masters, all coming together to showcase their skills and sportsmanship,” he said.

“We look forward to another

year of thrilling competition and strong community spirit.”

The annual championships provide a platform for Surf Life Saving Central Coast members to demonstrate their dedication to the sport, while also fostering camaraderie across the region. Spectators are encouraged to attend and support their local athletes.

Mariners go down fighting in penultimate AFC Elite match

FOOTBALL

Central Coast Mariners

men suffered a tough 2-1 defeat at home on Tuesday night February 11, against Malaysian club Johor Darul Ta’zim in the AFC Champions League Elite.

Despite a determined effort, a controversial red card in the first

half saw the Mariners reduced to 10 men, making their challenge even steeper.

The match was evenly contested in the first half, with both sides finding the back of the net before the break.

However, the sending-off of the Mariners’ goalkeeper Dylan Peraic-Cullen proved

NSW Department of Education

Application period for selective high school and opportunity class entry in 2026

Application dates: Thursday 7 November 2024 to Friday 21 February 2025

Applications for selective high school entry in Year 7 and opportunity class entry in Year 5 in 2026 are open from Thursday 7 November 2024 to Friday 21 February 2025. Selective high schools and opportunity classes are one of the ways that the NSW Department of Education provides support for high potential and gifted students. High potential and gifted students are supported across all NSW public schools through high potential and gifted education programs.

Students living in rural and remote locations may apply for Aurora College, which provides online selective high school and opportunity classes in NSW public primary schools and high schools.

For more information and to apply online visit: edu.nsw.link/shs-oc

Contact the department’s Selective Education Unit: Email: ssu@det.nsw.edu.au Phone: 1300 880 367 Applications close Friday 21 February 2025.

decisive, shifting the momentum in Johor’s favour.

The visitors capitalised on their numerical advantage in the second half, securing the winning goal and keeping their hopes alive in the competition.

Although the Mariners are no longer able to progress past the group stage following their previous loss to Yokohama F. Marinos in December, they remained committed to finishing strong and put on a spirited performance for their fans.

Manager Mark Jackson praised his team’s resilience and work ethic despite the challenging circumstances.

The Mariners have a bye this weekend and will return to Industree Group Stadium on February 22 for an A-League match against Western Sydney Wanderers.

Long Jetty over 50’s Club for Leisure and Learning

AGM will be held on Thursday 20th February 2025 at 1pm. Members are asked to attend.

Compulsory Acquisition of Land Roads Act 1993

Attention is invited to the notice published in Government Gazette No 32 of Friday, 31 January 2025 reference [NSWGG-2025-32-4] regarding the compulsory acquisition of land for road purposes at Woy Woy in the Central Coast Council area and said to be in the possession of Amitmanisha Holding Company Pty Ltd (registered proprietor) and Melanie Walker (occupant). (TfNSW Papers: SF2024/055042; RO SF2023/045233) Julie Connell Statutory Land Transactions Manager Transport for NSW

Contact: For full details call Transport for NSW on (02) 8650 1794.

Brian Kaltak in action in the AFC Elite match. Photo CCM Media

Terrigal - open men’s surf teams champions

U19 Ironwoman Jodie Mead

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

SPORTS BRIEF

Call out for tennis players

Terrigal Tennis Club Old Boys are inviting new players to join their group which plays on Monday and Thursday mornings at Terrigal Tennis Complex.

They are a bunch of retired men who have enjoyed competitive tennis over the years but now just enjoy social tennis.

During Summer they start at 8am but when it cools down games start later.

The group, sometimes referred to as Eric’s Old Boys, has been running for more than 20 years, and as members of the Terrigal Tennis Club they have access to the excellent clubhouse facilities to make a coffee and have a chat.

One of the group says that they have a number of “grey nomads” among them, and typical of their age group there is always someone attending to grandparent duties, away travelling or attending to body maintenance.

“As such we are on the lookout for new players,” he said.

Anyone interested in joining the group is welcome and can contact Noel Yule on 0403 550187 or Michael Boake on 0417 976378.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Tooheys Race Day headed for Gosford

Tooheys Race Day is set for Gosford Race Club on Saturday, February 22, with a program of topclass horse racing and live entertainment from Tay-G and DJ D-Flat.

There will be ticket options to suit everyone including general admission where for $15 online or $20 at the gate you can enjoy the vibrant trackside atmosphere with access to the lawn, bar, eateries and betting facilities.

Upgrades include the De Bortoli Rose Rose Garden for $125 where you can get up close to the action with a spot in the reserved trackside area.

This section has access to the new parade ring, winning post, private bar, catering and betting facilities and large picnic tables with umbrellas with a reserved table.

FOOTBALL

Enjoy a bottle of De Bortoli Rose Rose and grazing platter with a table, a minimum booking of four.

For $149 there is The Carousel package offering an exclusive experience at The Carousel, the stylish new setup near the courtyard area.

Designed with cocktail tables, live entertainment, table and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the

perfect spot for a group of friends to unwind and socialise with a private viewing area on the finish post.

The open terrace package at $189 provides a bird’s eye view of the winning straight with a private corporate box style terrace.

Enjoy a delicious, threecourse luncheon on the mezzanine level of the Lakeview Room with the $112 lakeview mezzanine package featuring panoramic views of the racecourse and winning straight with full TAB and bookmaker services and individual TV monitor.

Or enjoy the trackside reserved area for $40 offering picnic tables in a private area and private bar on the trackside lawn for you and your friends – first in, best dressed.

Mariners draw a frustrating picture

Both Central Coast Mariners men’s and women’s teams played out one-all draws over the weekend.

The men were in Perth on Friday evening, February 7, to play their traditionally difficult cross-continent rivals Perth Glory, while Canberra United held the Mariners women’s team in a tight contest.

The Mariners men fought back after Adam Taggart gave the hosts the lead in the eighth minute.

It was a massive effort from Mariners keeper Dylan PeraicCullen who made key saves to keep them in the game.

Both sides worked hard to score prior to the break with the Mariners looking stronger with some great teamwork in the forward line.

After the break, tactical changes sparked momentum, and Haine Eames’ long-range effort slipped past Perth keeper Oli Sail for the equaliser.

Both sides pushed for a winner, but the match ended 1-1.

The women’s side also secured a 1-1 draw in a top-six battle against Canberra United.

Jade Pennock put the Mariners ahead in the first half, but Michelle Heyman responded immediately after the break.

Despite late pressure from both teams, neither could find a decisive goal.

The men’s team has a bye next round, while the women travel to Victoria to face Melbourne Victory.

Tooheys Race Day is headed for Gosford

Miguel Di Pizio in action Photo CCM Media

An exciting Summer of cricket has prompted a new junior cricket program on the Central Coast with Cricket NSW starting new year Term 1 programs in which children can register right now to play cricket until the end of Summer, ensuring they won’t miss out on the season.

Wyong trainers have enjoyed a stellar run with a combined eight winners across NSW tracks in the past two weeks.

Sara Ryan trained Spicy Hotpot made it three wins on the bounce at Rosehill on Saturday, February 1, whilst Allan Kehoe had Lease victorious at Newcastle on the same day.

Both horses have been nominated to run on Thursday at Wyong on BJ Howes race day.

On Monday, February 3 Nikki Hodgson, who only has a small

The Term 1 competition is a build-up from last season’s pilot at the same time, an eightround program, with the first two rounds held before Christmas, and the next six rounds being held in Term 1.

“Parents were keen on this, and some kids wanted to play competition cricket,” CNSW Cricket Manager Central

Exciting Summer of cricket prompts new junior program

Coast Clare Thornley said.

“We ran a small-scale trial in Term 1 last year and it was a big success.

“We also recognised a need for a sort of bridging or transition program between the play-based Cricket Blast and hard ball junior cricket.”

This season’s competition currently has eight teams from

five clubs: The Entrance, Lisarow Ourimbah, Narara Wyoming, Terrigal Matcham, and Central Coast Grammar.

Some of the teams are mixed and one is all-girls.

Kits for the all-girls team were funded by Cricket NSW.

The games are played on a mix of Flicx and synthetic pitches on Saturdays which

restarted on February 1.

“Families can contact their local club to register – if their local club doesn’t currently have a team, they can still register and join an existing team or see if there is enough interest at the club to form a new team,” Thornley said.

Cricket NSW’s Term 1 programs have been prompted

Stellar run for Wyong horse trainers

team in work, ventured to Dubbo where her six-year-old gelding Island Legend saluted after coming from well back in the field and landing good bets in the process.

The wins kept coming the following day where Damien Lane headed to Grafton with two runners with both landing the prize in the form of Bold Rogue and Le Pelago.

Whilst Le Pelago was sent out favourite, Bold Rogue was somewhat of a surprise winner sweeping down the outside after starting at a handsome price of $26.

Sara Ryan, Wayne Seelin and

John Cooper were all successful at Scone last Thursday, which was held as a provincial meeting.

Not be outdone by the local trainers, boom Wyong apprentice Anna Roper again showed why she is widely regarded as one of the state’s most exciting riders notching up five wins including a double at Rosehill.

An eight-race card on Thursday, February 13 gets under way at 1.10pm with gates opening at 12pm.

For further information go to: wyongraceclub.com.au

by the amazing cricket Australia is experiencing this season, especially the Australian men’s team winning the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy decisively against India at the Sydney Test early in January, and the Australian women retaining the Ashes against England just days later.

An exciting Summer of cricket has prompted a new junior cricket competition

Sara Ryan made it three wins on the bounce at Rosehill